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Mr. Bocchichio sit’s on some pretty impressive committee’s :
Executive Committee Justice Wireless Communications Board National Reconnaissance Office (NRO)
"Until recently, it would have been impossible to publish an official, authoritative,
unclassified history of the NRO. The fact that we can tell the history of this second
space program today shows how much the NRO has evolved. Originally the NRO
and its mission were totally unacknowledged, first to protect the source and method;
and second, in deference to the sensitivity that some countries might have to U.S.
satellites orbiting over their territory. Today we take such activities for granted,
and the NRO and its mission can be much more open, and focus its measures for
secrecy on those areas in which the organization is developing technologies that
exceed the public’s imagination and the expectations of our adversaries.
Three forces molded the subsequent chapters in the National Reconnaissance Office’s
history: brilliant scientists and engineers, stunning reconnaissance technology, and
hard intelligence challenges. In his brief history of the National Reconnaissance
Office, Bruce Berkowitz presents unclassified glimpses of the scientists and engineers,
reconnaissance technologies, and intelligence issues that drove the development of
the National Reconnaissance Office and its efforts to defend the nation during the
last fifty years of air and space advances.
Developing national reconnaissance technology provided an unprecedented vantage
point for the United States, but also posed unprecedented technological challenges.
One of the most significant early challenges included developing a plane that could
fly in the thin atmosphere of high altitudes. Another significant challenge was the
launch of large objects into space on a regular basis without failure. Once in space,
technological challenges existed for retrieving information—pictures and signals—
from space. Space is a harsh environment and space technology must persist in that
environment.
The relationship of the NRO to the Secretary of Defense and to the head of the
Intelligence Community has evolved throughout the organization’s existence. Many
scholars and former officials have written about this relationship, often emphasizing
the conflict between various components, or between individuals. Make no mistake;
this conflict was real. But its actual impact has probably been overstated. In
reality, the Air Force, CIA, and Navy programs, though distinctly separate
organizations, often worked together, drawing on common technology and support
infrastructure. Contractors often worked for more than one organization.
The most recent turn in the relationship between the Defense Department and
Intelligence Community in running the NRO occurred on 21 September 2010,
when the Director of National Intelligence and Secretary of Defense signed a new
memorandum of agreement. Under this agreement, which effectively serves as a new
charter for the NRO, the NRO Director is responsible for managing and operating
NRO programs and serves as the principal advisor to the Secretary of Defense and
the DNI on overhead systems.
Fifty years after its establishment, the NRO has become a global organization,
managing a complex system of satellites and ground stations that provides
intelligence support to an ever-expanding number and variety of users. The NRO
today operates a highly integrated architecture of satellites for signals intelligence,
imagery intelligence, and communications, in addition to its network of ground
stations.
More recently, the NRO has provided intelligence and information to law
enforcement, counterterrorism, and border protection organizations. The NRO has
also supported security planners for major public events to ensure public safety.
U.S. reconnaissance satellites have provided critical information to first responders
and relief operations during natural disasters. After Hurricane Katrina struck the
southeastern United States in August 2005, for example, the Federal Emergency
Management Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers used NRO imagery to
assess flooded areas and identify the location of hazards.
After fifty years, the challenge for the NRO is to maintain the reliability and contain
the costs of its current systems, while at the same time providing the opportunity
and challenge that attracts the nation’s top minds to imagine new ways to protect
American security with overhead reconnaissance."
www.nro.gov/history/csnr/programs/NRO_Brief_History.pdf
; )
Imo .. this “Committee of Public Safety Wireless Network (PSWN)” that Mr. Bocchichio is on .. was the prelude to the bill that appropriates $7 billion in federal funds for construction and implementation of this nationwide, interoperable emergency communications network.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m2194/is_5_70/ai_76880857/?tag=content;col1
"Public Safety Wireless Network (PSWN) Program:
A Brief Introduction
Public safety wireless interoperability refers to the ability of public safety officials to communicate with each other seamlessly in real time over their wireless communications network. Whether by voice or through data transmissions, interoperable communications can mean the difference between life and death for citizens and public safety personnel and often hold the key to minimizing loss of property when disasters occur. However, the history and evolution of public safety wireless communications seems to contradict the need for, and benefits of, interoperability. Stand-alone systems, operating independently, consequently have created obstacles to interoperability. Nonetheless, these obstacles can be overcome, and the Public Safety Wireless Network (PSWN) Program is leading efforts to do so.
History and Organization
The PSWN Program is a joint effort sponsored by the U.S. Departments of Justice and the Treasury. The program addresses issues facing public safety wireless communications, primarily in the area of interoperability among land mobile radio (LMR) networks used to support public safety missions. The program is working to plan and foster interoperability at all levels of government (e.g:, local, state, and federal) and among all public safety disciplines (e.g., law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services). In 1996, the PSWN Program was founded in response to a National Partnership for Reinventing Government (NPRG) initiative that called for the establishment of an intergovernmental wireless public safety network as a means of achieving interoperability. Since then, the vision has evolved to a system of networks, regionally focused, brought together through coordination and partnerships among public safety agencies from all levels of government."
Our relationship with G3 .. with their public / private partnership vision & this new safety network that includes all levels of government .. has put a smile on my face
Another thought .. the FAA will soon be allowing UAV’s of a lighter weight to fly / operate in regular air space? Well, our platform should fall into that classification .. it is after all “lighter than air” .. it has a minus weight figure .. it’s so light you have to hold it down
; )
Geesh .. it’s no wonder she doesn’t answer emails Mide .. you’re yapping to her continuously ; )
Just kidding .. thanks for sharing your insight Mide & everyone else .. looks like we’re getting close
GLAL
Thanks Bill .. I like your thoughts on why the changes may have taken place .. and what they could mean going forward. I appreciate all that Mr. Clark did for us .. it’s too bad that the share price never responded.
I believe our patience ( you especially .. wow ) will be rewarded
; )
I think Mr. Bocchicho’s Telecommunication’s tech background played into today’s announcement ..
From “Anthony Bocchicho’s summary” :
“WSGI has the capability to provide critical mission services utilizing UAVs and secure satellite communications throughout the world.”
From his other jobs list:
“Telecommunications and Secure Information Technology fields” & “Expertise and special interest in Telecommunications and Information Technology Security and developing surveillance technologies for government and law enforcement agencies.”
From his committee’s list :
Public Safety Wireless Network (PSWN) & Executive Committee Justice Wireless Communications Board National Reconnaissance Office (NRO)
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/anthony-bocchichio/7/ba0/519
A little more connect the dots ..
Mary Scott Nabers .. co-founder of G3 has said :
“ For years public safety and law enforcement officials throughout the country have asked for legislation that would create a nationwide broadband network for emergency communications. A revolutionary bill was finally passed by both the House and Senate that reallocates a portion of the 700 MHz, or D Block spectrum, for exclusive use by first responders. The bill appropriates $7 billion in federal funds for construction and implementation.
Passage of this bill is a big milestone, but creating the infrastructure to support these networks will require expertise and funding from private sector partners. The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) sees this as an opportunity for public-private partnerships (P3s) to shape how state and local governments utilize this network.”
http://www.spartnerships.com/resources/2012-jump/pipeline_jump_041812.html
A little more on this “nationwide, interoperable emergency communications network”
http://www.policeone.com/police-products/communications/articles/5098920-D-Block-allocation-to-public-safety-is-done/
Interesting developments .. imo
So, is there a means to sell / export our product abroad?
"Thus, a need exists for a method making it possible to structure an arrangement which would allow for the exploitation of highly restricted technology without running afoul of export restrictions and other requirements, and at the same time addressing the legitimate security concerns of the United States.
The invention is based upon the discovery that a certain arrangements may be implemented which will allow U.S. entities to successfully exploit highly restricted technologies, while at the same time, in a cooperative effort with U.S. authorities, complying with the numerous statutory and regulatory requirements necessary to obtain the authorization(s) to do so.
The invention is directed to a method for controlling sensitive technical information to meet U.S. Government restrictions and controls for protecting the national security. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method is employed to clear for use outside of the United States, a High Altitude Airship (HAA) or vehicle, representing a dual use technology under EAR and ITAR
According to the invention a combination of specialized arrangements for controlling ultimate ownership of the vehicle; the technical information relating to it, its operations; and safeguards regarding recovery of the vehicle enables exploitation of a dual use technology by customers outside the United States. Although the vehicle is not exportable under EAR and then the ITAR, it is possible using the arrangements provided herein to adequately address the security concerns of the United States and yet allow for the utilization of such dual use technologies in the international market place."
http://www.patentstorm.us/applications/20080065401/description.html
; )
I think most of us are frustrated .. but remember .. there was a time when news released was total b.s. that many said they didn’t want to hear of “what they indented to do .. we only wanted to learn of results”!?!?!
When things went awry @ Yuma .. we were told about the mishap & also about the specific upgrades that took place to the Argus platform during that time period
I’m sure it is still being tried & tested @ N2S2 ..
Reports from last years SHM were that different customers / contractor’s wanted a selection of equipment tested on the Argus platform .. not to mention the wants of the DoD. I can only imagine all the possible technologies that could be added onto our airship .. that is the reason most longs have stuck around this long .. our reward could still be huge
This stock shoulda gone t*ts-up long ago my friends
; )
Not with a 4 cent share price : /
Update .. I did receive a response from my inquiry .. there is still a relationship
: )
"Good morning Mr. Weil,
G3 had a news announcement on their website about working with World Surveillance Group .. but it is no longer there. Has your working relationship been terminated? I am a WSGI shareholder and was excited about what your organization represented going forward. I would appreciated anything you could share .. please & thank you."
Sami
http://www.geminiglobalgroup.com/press.html
mide .. if you’re talking with Babs today .. would you please ask about G3. My inquiries fall on deaf ears / blind eyes .. thanks
I agree with you that tethered aerostats are sufficient in their role to monitor along a border .. I’m sure their presence alone would help to deter problem situations .. sneaking in , drug running etc
I while back I posted a news article about such a system that was being tested along the Canadian border and the rude reactions it caused. I think people realize that big brother intends on watching as much as possible .. no one wants to see / know it’s actually happening to them.
That’s why the UAV of the LTA variety are so desired .. with their extended time on station .. if they’re high enough no one will even know they’re up there
It’ll happen .. its been thought about
I hope you’re right and those who are down / out but still following this story buy more or back in with the announcement of a substantial contract (s) .. while the price is low
I think many longs have already averaged down.. that when a contract (s) come & share price runs up it will be met with selling pressure from what were patient and now impatient longs.
Clark & crew represented something big .. a reassurance that this segmented technology was the real deal .. that something wonderful was still in the cards for this company & it would soon be upon us ( not )
Obviously there was / is a lot of clean-up required within .. including the undoing with Dr. K & what has now become the reworked ( twice now ) Argus platform
The newly applied for patent on the Argus platform .. that was / is being tested for the DoD @ N2S2 site represents a world of possibilities
I think great things will happen still .. contracts for the Argus platform .. then funding for the 230 & Strat platforms. Not to forget the GTC side of the equation
I just hope I don’t sell too much too soon : /
GLAL
Well, we hope the past doesn’t repeat itself .. but maybe he didn’t want to have a conversation with these people at that point in time as they were still developing the airship .. maybe it was a surprise call & that’s why he was so rude / upset at all involved .. I don’t know.
A .04 share price is an embarrassment and it does appear that these people are making too much money at the point in time. We are hopeful for a brighter future & at this point in time there is still one
GLTY
Trunkmonk, we’re all frustrated with how slow the process has been in bringing the LTA platform to market but they were still making physical changes to it as recently as November
They have just recently applied for a patent on the Argus design after free flights at the N2S2 site .. and that says to me that they finally have a working prototype.
I also agree with Bankinonit .. about management & their confidence around the airship being commercialized. Remember, Clark has brought new product to market before .. I think that is a huge factor in why we’ve seen so little / heard so little about the airship program
It was about a “conversation with FEMA” ?.. that warp expressed his displeasure with how things were unfolding within the company
http://investorshub.advfn.com/boards/read_msg.aspx?message_id=64736217
Well .. they applied for a patent on the Argus and here is a little info on that event ...
"Is your invention completely finished? Does it do what is supposed to do? Do you have a working prototype? Have you tested your invention? You must finish your invention before you can - patent your idea - because your patent must be based on what your invention is and modifications after the fact require another patent. Also, with a finished invention in hand you can do a market evaluation."
http://inventors.about.com/od/firststeps/a/patent_an_idea.htm
So, what were we told about the Argus ...
"The U.S. patent application is for an LTA unmanned, autonomous airship with automated control for individual modules for improved flight stability and aerodynamic control. The design features the ability to control the rigidity between each module and the ability to pivot. The modules are operated by microcontrollers based on aerodynamic requirements. The airship's altitude, overall response and handling characteristics and flight control utilizes a system of ballonets contained within each individual module, thereby creating a dynamically adjustable airship."
http://ir.stockpr.com/wsgi/company-news/detail/1003/world-surveillance-group-files-u-s-patent-application-on-airship-design
"The Argus One is a mid-altitude, lighter-than-air UAV designed to hover above the earth's surface for extended periods of time. The uniquely constructed low observable airship is designed to handle surface winds in a more efficient manner than traditional "blimp-like" airships, while delivering a cost-effective solution based on minimal ground and human infrastructure."
http://ir.stockpr.com/wsgi/company-news/detail/933/world-surveillance-group-demonstrates-argus-one-uav-for-u-s-department-of-defense-at-the-nevada-test-site
"mid-altitude = 10 – 20 000’ operations"
"2 – 3 day dwell time on target or race track operations"
http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/919742/000114420411042071/v229662_ex99-1.htm
Bottom line .. they have a working prototype ; )
WW, from that article that JJ shared ( thank you ) we also have this ...
“But it’s not just Blue Devil that’s in trouble. The Navy just deflated its MZ-3A blimp. & The Army’s Long Endurance Multi-Intelligence Vehicle airship, which was supposed to be in Afghanistan by now, has run into significant development roadblocks as well.”
http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2012/03/giant-spy-blimp/
About the MZ-3A Blimp ... Oct 27 / 2011 ... “Navy's Modern Airship Receives Historical Identification”
“The manned 178-foot LTA craft can remain aloft and nearly stationary for more than twelve hours, performing various missions in support of technology development for Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) concepts.”
"Airships offer extreme utility in C4ISR roles and patrol missions where persistent stare and reliable communications are often more important than speed," said Bert Race, MZ-3A Government Flight Representative and Project Manager. "Our MZ-3A has proven that an airship is a very effective platform for mission system research and development."
http://www.nrl.navy.mil/media/news-releases/2011/navys-modern-airship-receives-historical-identification
Kinda weird for them to be “deflating” it now? Has an unmanned system caught their attention?
So, is the Army’s LEMV next off the list WW? It should have been @ Yuma this past Oct?
“The timeline for LEMV is an 18 month schedule starting in June 2010 that includes vehicle inflation at about month 10 with first flight planned in month 12 or 13. Additional operational characterization will occur at Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz., in month 16”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Long_Endurance_Multi-intelligence_Vehicle
With the Argus testing / demoing @ N2S2 & the design being scalable ... the set-back’s taking place in these other programs may play in our favor? It’s said “with hard work you create your own luck” ... nice work team
; )
With Argus still inflated and waiting @ the N2S2 site ... having on record this patent filing may have been the hold up before we hear more on those competing multi-billion dollar defense contractors wanting to load & test their ISR and Comm equipment?
; )
be real, here is an updated article ... from what I can tell “Increment 3” is next up as “General Dynamics is under contract to provide Increment 2” ...
There are some big named players involved in the WIN-T development program ... “General Dynamics C4 Systems leads a WIN-T team that includes Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Harris Corporation, L-3 communications, and networking rivals Juniper Networks and Cisco Systems.”
“WIN-T Increment 3 introduces an airborne network node to act as a relay, increased network reliability and capacity; and smaller, more tightly integrated communications and networking gear for the field.”
http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/119M-to-General-Dynamics-for-Armys-WIN-T-Satellite-Terminals-05482/
I imagine L.M will be pushing their HAA program for the “Airborne network node / Increment 3” ... but with a successful Argus campaign ... one never knows
; )
US Gov Funded LTA-Projects:
HAA Lockheed Martin, $148m ... still in-house testing?
http://defense-update.com/20110729_hale-d-high-altitude-airship-crashed-in-ohio.html
HiSentinel, OSD $20m ... still in-house testing?
Some may think “hearsay or whatever” ... but Mide also reported / shared these words that have come 2 b
“Current cash is $1.5 mm and have lined up an additional $8-9 mm in funds that may come in as debt financing and hybrid equity vehicles.” = Feb 7, 2012 PR?
http://investorshub.advfn.com/boards/read_msg.aspx?message_id=65585604
“powerhouse outside marketing firm has been identified” = Feb 16, 2012 PR?
“GTC also introducing a new patentable widget to go after a new commercial app. Totally unique...market appears big” = Feb 14, 2012 PR?
http://investorshub.advfn.com/boards/read_msg.aspx?message_id=65586932
I like these ...
“Aggressive Stock buy back vs. reversal”
“The only thing that was not asked was what about the $1.5mm Space Coast match money, but in a way even that was. If they get a contract to build them, the money will be released to build 'em at the Cape at the rate of 7 per month and 3 in Easton per month.”
http://investorshub.advfn.com/boards/read_msg.aspx?message_id=65585232
imo ... they’re working a game plan ... contracts will come
; )
BDay, Mide heard this at the shareholder meeting ... of course the oct plug-n-play became the dec to present test / demo ...
“When the August Yuma testing is completed the company will receive the all important DOD certification that will make the Argus 1 a "widget" in the DOD catalog for purchase and contracting, that is also facilitated with the marriage with GTC already a DOD contractor. The October test is the plug and play with several competing "multi-billion dollar" defense contractors to load for testing their ISR and Comm. toys into the payload bay slots. Names not named. Key people in Fema are well aware now of the potential of the Argus One and it's specs.”
http://investorshub.advfn.com/boards/read_msg.aspx?message_id=65585604
I imagine that if Argus performs as desired and the military is satisfied ... and “company X” has equipment that it would like tested ... as long as it would benefit the military going forward ... that they’d be more than happy to see it demo’d.
I think if this “company X” were happy with the results that new partnerships may be the result?
Maybe the L-3 non-update ... of working together is a result of these “company X’s” in the mix?
Very nice ; )
be real ... a link from July 2010 but worth the read ... speaks about connecting the front-line troops to everything ... here's some highlites from the article & my bold
http://www.army.mil/article/42568/
“ During raids as an infantry company commander in Iraq, Maj. Bill Venable experienced frequent 45-minute drives to receive detailed mission orders from battalion headquarters.
Through the unprecedented combination of three separate waveforms, Soldiers at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., received similar information instantaneously with the click of a button.
The exercise was very powerful," he said. "I think it has a lot of potential to change the warfighters' tactics and techniques."
At White Sands, Soldiers maneuvered various platforms at vast distances away from one another to see if they could maintain network connectivity. The network was stressed during numerous operational vignettes and experienced the diverse temperatures, environmental factors and altitudes of White Sands.
The Army's three network waveforms were established based on the amount of information passed across each, said Rick Cozby, PEO Integration's associate director for C4ISR testing. Smaller echelons share less information, which lessens bandwidth requirements, he explained. This allows Soldiers to operate successfully with smaller, more portable radios than those needed at higher echelons.
In today's tactical environment, the Soldier Radio Waveform, or SRW, operates at the lowest level echelon, providing information to individual Soldiers or teams within a company. As echelon levels increase, more tactical data is shared and the large communications pipe of Wideband Network Waveform, or WNW, is a necessary provision.
With the WNW, Soldiers use the Network Integration Kit, or NIK, which integrates radios with computer-based applications and can be mounted directly into a platform. Connectivity is achieved through an aerial layer using the Joint Tactical Radio System attached to unmanned aerial vehicles and other components such as airships and Rapid Aerostat Initial Deployment, or RAID towers.
The final Network Centric Waveform, or NCW, is the satellite layer, which allows warfighters to access the Internet and share voice, video and data across the globe. Today, these capabilities are achieved through WIN-T Increment One. A backbone air tier will be fielded in WIN-T Increment Three, which will bring a network backbone which can maintain connectivity at all times, regardless of whether a platform is moving or stationary.
The three separate waveforms were integrated to provide connectivity from the lowest to highest echelons, which was the point of the exercise. Cozby noted that acquisition programs of record exist to build the various waveforms and the associated radios, but there is no program of record designed to integrate them with each other. This was accomplished by the Army's new PEO for Integration, which was created as a result of an acquisition decision memorandum in December 2009 laying out the networks for 2011 and 2017.”
So, back to our Argus in a box platform ... if it operates as desired ... it would be perfect for the front-line ... as it seems that there are technologies to be mounted on it
; )
be real: I didn’t receive a response back from wsgi ... but I like to believe anything is possible ; )
Here is an interesting headline from “Inside Defense” ...
"Air Force Studying Ways To Trim CLS Costs On ISR Platforms
DefenseAlert, Feb. 24, 2012 -- ORLANDO, FL -- The Air Force is beginning to analyze the way it sustains its newest platforms, especially those performing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, after years of depending almost exclusively on contractors to provide that support, the service's top civilian said today."
http://defensenewsstand.com/
Interesting (imo) as our Argus platform was tested / demo’d / awaits further review @ N2S2 ... that is sandwiched between Air Force sites ...
Imagining a conversation between the Air Force & wsgi:
Air Force: “we like it ... we want it ... how much?”
Wsgi: “3 million even”
Air Force: ”Nice ... we’ll take 20 to start ... we may need your support staff during transition”
Wsgi: “hmm”
Air Force: “Ahh don’t worry ‘bout it ... we’ll figure it out ... there’s always a way”
; )
Be real, I also forwarded that info to WSGI ... I sure hope it’s something that they could do ... with the help of GSAT?
DARPA SEEKS PERVASIVE COMMUNICATIONS FOR DEPLOYED TROOPS
February 08, 2012
Advanced fixed transmission capability to yield large area coverage for military radio networks
Dropped calls are an annoyance in a major metropolitan area. But when you’re conducting military patrols in a remote forward-operating location, a loss of data signal means no connectivity between you, reachback support, firepower and valuable intelligence. DARPA’s Fixed Wireless at a Distance program seeks to enable pervasive, high-throughput military communications using a mobility backbone infrastructure that provides unlimited scalability for high-speed communication for warfighters.
“Commercial cell systems are optimized to serve large population areas, where cell towers can be added as population grows. Such systems, however, are not optimized for remote geographic areas where our troops operate,” said Mark Rich, DARPA program manager. “The Fixed Wireless at a Distance program seeks innovative technologies for deploying and operating fixed-transmission facilities in forward operating bases that can support activities over large geographic areas. We are looking for technology to extend infrastructure range and simplify infrastructure operation. Unique networking technology is sought to support military mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) from fixed infrastructure.”
Current military communication systems have limited ability to support mobile, distributed operations in remote geographic areas due to the small size of networks and relatively short range of military radios. Today, MANETs are used to relay communications traffic and provide communications services beyond the range of a single radio. However, when MANETs grow, the traffic is divided into the number of users served by the networks, and the service data rate delivered to an individual in a MANET drops to a small fraction of the radio capability. The scaling limitations of a MANET—typically 10s to 100s of users—are reached when the traffic that can be delivered to an individual becomes unacceptably low. Much larger networks will be needed as operations become more distributed and increased numbers of autonomous sensors are deployed.
The program envisions advanced fixed military transmission facilities and capabilities placed in protected areas, such as the confines of a forward operating base; on strategic high-terrain features; atop structures of opportunity; or on aerostats. Signals from these multiple, distributed sources are combined to reach a distant “client” radio or radios.
Service delivery is expected to support three types of client radio systems – enhanced range communication devices, legacy military radio systems and commercial communications systems (such as 3G/4G cellular and WiFi) for operations in the vicinity of the forward operating base.
http://www.darpa.mil/NewsEvents/Releases/2012/02/08.aspx
https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=dffa552badc79d8e51c5a1e517e4571c&tab=core&_cview=0
This may help ... to help others
http://www.spaceflorida.gov/news/2012/02/17/governor-scott-signs-senate-bill-634
“Global Telesat Corp... Portal On Parade (Business)”
http://www.satnews.com/cgi-bin/story.cgi?number=195449605
It was mentioned @ the Colorado conference that these LTA platforms glow in the evening & morning sky
http://the-v-factor-paranormal.blogspot.com/2012/01/yellow-glowing-object-seen-flying.html
http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&rlz=1R2ADFA_enCA351&q=Mesa+Arizona&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x872ba7c2c0c592c1:0xd10fc215694e771b,Mesa,+AZ&ei=BTYtT7imJ6bV0QGTh6nHCg&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&ct=title&resnum=2&ved=0CBwQ8gEwAQ
Not saying it’s us ... but with Yuma to the south & the N2S2 site to the north ... and the renewed interest in these platforms
; )
Yes Modlam, good luck ... but let this extensive testing / ongoing demoing @ the N2S2 site play out ... if you can, before you pull the plug ... on what you see as a never ending nightmare of a story
I don’t know any more than what’s PR’d from the company or what our shared DD turns up ... but from that, it’s clear that there is a renewed interest from the U.S. military, DoD etc ... for these LTA UAV’s & it’s huge.
I haven’t read of another LTA UAV platform testing / demoing as we are now ... for them to still be there and testing more equipment means it free fly’s as desired ... it’s all gravy after that
It was reported from the shareholder meeting that some defence contractor’s wanted their equipment tested on our platform when the time was right?
I think because our platform ties back into the GSAT satellite network or can act as a mobile ground station or satellite ... providing a much needed communication boost to those in the field ... that will be most appreciated.
Mod, hold tight my friend!!!!!
I will wait for success Modlam... no matter how long it takes ... win big or lose big ... I’m / we're all in
From viewing not only Mr. Clarks video from the Colorado “High Altitude and Near Space Conference” but also those of the other “Keynote Speakers”...
These LTA UAV’s are “WANTED”. A handful of programs have received funding... but it was said that funding was not available to help develop every program / idea out there. They ( Government & Military ) were thankful to the private entrepreneur... with the for-sight & desire to design, build and then test their own product’s BEFORE demonstrating them to Government & Military... and if the private entrepreneur followed “set guild-lines” to ensure that these new technologies “meshed into ALL existing platforms / technologies out there” then they would be more than willing to purchase these new technologies.
We’ve spent time @ Yuma Proving Grounds ... made changes & have now been @ the very private N2S2 site ... for a continued period of time. I think we'll learn soon if things are going as hoped ... if the above said is true
It's just a matter of time... imo
If the material can’t expand or be folded ... maybe size them to fit "the box" & use more of them ... vent expanding gas to additional containment tanks made of the same special material... and locate them in the body / tail sections. I think they’d have to have the photo cell / self producing energy system in place at this point though. If, the Argus design is still based on the Blau gas filling the body / tail sections the above mentioned wouldn’t work. imo
Not trying to beat you to the punch WW ... but there are a couple other interesting reads ( imo ) within your find ... thanks
“Argus One airship undergoes initial testing”
http://defensesystems.com/articles/2012/01/19/agg-argus-one-airship-demonstration.aspx
“Unmanned systems, networks struggle with reliability tests”
http://defensesystems.com/articles/2012/01/19/agg-army-networks-unmanned-systems-test-results.aspx
“Brighter days ahead for unmanned systems”
http://defensesystems.com/articles/2011/12/13/industry-perspective-unmanned-systems-market-outlook.aspx
It looks like they have a “proposed” site in mind ... Gulf Coast area?
Check out map on pg 14 ...
http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/919742/000114420411042071/v229662_ex99-1.htm
; )
Jet,
Within the “Wide Area Video Surveillance” ... are two different systems
1. Imaging System (ARGUS-IS) : provided daytime capability = A-160 VTOL UAV
2.Infrared (ARGUS-IR) : night-time persistent capability = ?????
Did you hear who / or the platform that this second system is to reside on ... didn’t think so ... but you know L-3 is doing the work on the “Army/ARGUS-IS/A-160 and any related or non-related efforts” ... imagine that!
You work around aircraft, jet? Maybe you could help me with this...
how noisy the A-160 with its 36’ blade being powered by Pratt & Whitney PW207D turboshaft engines would be @ 20 000’ ... I’d bet any insurgents would be more than aware of its presence flying / hovering in the sky ... maybe aware of its surveillance capability, if it’s not firing anything from it ... so they stay hidden during the day?
Then, the sun sets ... winds calm down? Gets black outside & quiet ... very quiet! The regular type people are inside with their families ... but the bad guys are waiting, listening for the unfamiliar? before making their move. But we have another platform ... a silent one, with an Infrared system ... capable of watching EVERYTHING move ... in the dead of night!
If the “night-time ARGUS-IR was residing on a LTA UAS... with its 2’ blade being powered by a muffled “string trimmer” type engine?... how much quieter would that be @ 20 000’ ? Would you even hear it?
Yes, we are without a current relationship with L-3
But...
We also know there was an IR ( Infrared ) package mount from L-3 at one point.
"The electronic systems in the payload package have been provided by our partner L-3 Communications and our wholly owned subsidiary, Global Telesat Corp. ("GTC") and consists of an L-3 Wescam Electro-Optical/Infrared package and GTC's satellite communications equipment that utilizes Globalstar Inc.'s Low Earth Orbit satellite constellation."
http://ir.stockpr.com/wsgi/company-news/detail/813/world-surveillance-group-schedules-flight-testing-in-yuma-for-july-11-to-july-22
We’ll see ... time tells all
; )
The ARGUS Imaging System is reside on a VLOT UAV ( Vertical Takeoff and Landing )... I believe our airship could be considered a VLOT UAV?
The A-160 is one platform that the ARGUS Imaging System is to reside on ... from what I’ve read there was to be another...
http://investorshub.advfn.com/boards/read_msg.aspx?message_id=65250554
“Integrated the sensor and airborne processing systems into a compatible pod.” ... sounds like the “mobile Appliqués” capabilities in the pod?
“ARGUS-IS and ARGUS-IR to be combined into a common pod.” ... sounds like “The pod bay continues to be designed to be "plug and play" for swift and easy integration of different payloads for various airship applications and missions.”
This DARPA program is to be handed off to the Army & Air Force ... one of the picture on WSGI website shows what looks to me like two Army guys. The N2S2 site is surrounded by Air Force grounds ... our current testing location?? Just playing connect the dots
But we did have a relationship with L3 when they received this contract...
L-3 Communications Corp., Salt Lake City, Utah, is being awarded a $27,936,509 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to provide the research, development, build, delivery, installation, integration and test of land and air based components in direct support of data link communications activities including, but not limited to the Automated Real-Time Ground Ubiquitous Surveillance (ARGUS)-Imaging System, the Automated Real-Time Ground Ubiquitous Surveillance-Infrared, wide area network detection, insight, sensor advancements for experimental ground and air research demonstrations, wide area airborne surveillance, Army/ARGUS-IS/A-160 and any related or non-related efforts. The Air Force Research Laboratory/PKDB, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8650-11-C-7125).
http://www.defense.gov/contracts/contract.aspx?contractid=4568
Sounds like they were reworking the relationship?
“ We also have a technological relationship with L-3 Communications (C2S2 Division), a prime contractor in command, control and communications, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, government services, aircraft modernization and maintenance and electronic systems. The Company and C2S2 had a memorandum of understanding to jointly evaluate various C2S2 electronic and electro-optic systems integrated onto our airships to support ISR and security solutions and to work together to market our airships integrated with the C2S2 systems in the fields of defense, law enforcement, emergency and homeland security applications which recently expired in accordance with its terms, however, we are presently in discussions with C2S2 about a new agreement to reflect the revised relationship between the parties. WSGI and C2S2, along with Eastcor Engineering, are collaborating on preparation of the Argus One airship for additional testing and demonstrations to potential Government customers. Eastcor will conduct all flight tests and demonstrations, and at least initially, C2S2 is expected to serve as the systems integrator and operator of our Argus One UAV and we will use C2S2’s ground stations as well.”
“Our Argus One airship is intended to provide critical observation and communications capabilities serving the increased demand for ISR, including real-time tactical reconnaissance, tracking, combat assessment and geographic data, while reducing the risks to our U.S. troops in theatre. The ability to observe adversaries on a continuous basis in all manner of locations with high-resolution cameras, sensors and other electronic equipment remains a critical need for our military.”
Or maybe we will still have something to do with it? With a successful free flight of Argus One... which may lead to a larger platform??
“ We plan on designing and developing larger LTA UAVs, based on the design of and building on the technologies incorporated in the Argus One, to extend the endurance of and increase the payload capacity on the airships as well as to increase the altitude at which these airships perform. Using and enhancing upon the technologies developed for the Argus One line of airships, we ultimately believe we will be able to develop a high altitude airship (HAA, or as it is also referred, a High Altitude Platform (HAP) or a high altitude long endurance airship (HALE)) that will be designed to stay on location in the stratosphere for durations of 30 days or more. “
Thanks WW
; )
This ARGUS-IS & ARGUS-IR was a DARPA program... to be handed off to the Army & Air Force. I realize the ARGUS-IS / Camera side of the equation weighs quite a bit ... too much for what we have listed as our Argus One capabilities ... but I don’t know the weight of this ARGUS-IR System. At some point both systems are to be mounted within the pod of the UAS.
I’m intrigued that after our first test / deom @ Yuma ... we return and say this ...
“The newly developed pod bay was re-designed and constructed with new electronics, a more powerful propulsion unit and improved propeller functionality for better handling and maneuverability.”
“It is outfitted with proprietary electronics, including custom built PC-boards running newly developed command and control software that was architected specifically for the Argus One UAV platform. The pod bay continues to be designed to be "plug and play" for swift and easy integration of different payloads for various airship applications and missions.”
http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Argus_One_UAV_Completes_Flight_Testing_With_New_Pod_Bay_and_Propulsion_System_999.html
Here are the specifics on the Program:
A. Mission Description and Budget Item Justification
The Sensors and Processing Systems project develops and demonstrates the advanced sensor and processing technologies and systems necessary for the
intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Future battlefields will continue to be populated with targets that use mobility and concealment as key
survival tactics, and high-value targets will range from specific individual insurgents and vehicles to groups of individuals and large platforms such as mobile missile
launchers and artillery. The Sensors and Processing Systems project is primarily driven by four needs: (a) providing day-night ISR capabilities against the entire range
of potential targets; (b) countering camouflage, concealment and deception of mobile ground targets; (c) detecting and identifying objects of interest/targets across wide
geographic areas in near-real-time; and (d) enabling reliable identification, precision fire control tracking, timely engagement and accurate battle damage assessment
of ground targets. The Sensors and Processing Systems project develops and demonstrates technologies and system concepts that combine novel approaches to
sensing with emerging sensor technologies and advanced sensor and image processing algorithms, software, and hardware to enable comprehensive knowledge
of the battlespace and detection, identification, tracking, engagement and battle damage assessment for high-value targets in all weather conditions and combat
environments.
B. Accomplishments/Planned Programs ($ in Millions)
Title: Wide Area Video Surveillance
Description: The Wide Area Video Surveillance program is developing advanced electro-optical and infrared sensor technologies
to enable persistent, wide-area, day-night video surveillance. Specific examples of these technologies includes: gigapixel focal
plane arrays; advanced digital signal processors for giga-pixel image formation; advanced image processing algorithms for realtime
detection, identification, and tracking of elusive and deceptive military targets; and advanced optics, telescopes and gimbals
for high-resolution image capture. The Wide Area Video Surveillance program integrates these technologies in proof-of-concept
prototypes for demonstration on military platforms including large and small, manned and unmanned aerial vehicles. Wide Area
Video Surveillance technologies are planned for transition to the U.S. Air Force. Efforts in this program include:
- The Autonomous Real-time Ground Ubiquitous Surveillance - Imaging System (ARGUS-IS) program is developing an airborne
sensor system that provides persistent, real-time, high-resolution, wide-area video surveillance. ARGUS-IS will provide the
warfighter with a minimum of 65 "Predator like" video windows across the field of view. Each video window is electronically
steerable and independent of the others. ARGUS-IS can also provide a global moving target indicator for vehicle size objects
across the entire field of view. ARGUS-IS is comprised of three major subsystems: (1) a Gigapixel Sensor Subsystem (GSS)
which consists of a set of four telescopes and is mounted in a 3-axis stabilized gimbal; (2) an Airborne Processing Subsystem
(APS) which takes raw pixels from the GSS and performs all required processing; and (3) a ground processing subsystem which provides the interface to the user and records down-linked imagery. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the transition of
ARGUS-IS from DARPA to the U.S. Air Force has been executed, and technologies are transitioning to the U.S. Air Force and
U.S. Army.
- The Autonomous Real-time Ground Ubiquitous Surveillance - Infrared (ARGUS-IR) program is developing an airborne sensor
system that provides a persistent, real-time, high-resolution, wide-area night video surveillance capability. ARGUS-IR uses an
advanced infrared (IR) focal plane array (FPA) sensor. The nighttime persistent capability provided by ARGUS-IR combined with
the daytime capability provided by ARGUS-IS enables 24-hour day/night surveillance. ARGUS-IR's wide-area, high-update-rate,
high-resolution imaging capability will enable detection and tracking of dismounts as well as vehicles. ARGUS-IR will utilize the
signal/image processor developed as part of ARGUS-IS, enabling ARGUS-IS and ARGUS-IR to be combined into a common
pod. ARGUS-IR must overcome a number of demanding technical challenges related to the IR FPA and size, weight, and power
constraints for the IR sensor. A transition plan is being developed with the U.S. Air Force.
FY 2010 Accomplishments:
Autonomous Real-time Ground Ubiquitous Surveillance - Imaging System (ARGUS-IS)
- Completed the build and delivery of sensor and airborne processing systems for the U.S. Air Force.
- Integrated the sensor and airborne processing systems into a compatible pod.
- Integrated the ARGUS-IS pod with the target platform.
- Conducted flight tests to validate the video windows and video tracking functionality.
Autonomous Real-time Ground Ubiquitous Surveillance - Infrared (ARGUS-IR)
- Performed initial design studies for the IR sensor and airborne processing system.
- Performed analysis for the pod/fairing and gimbal layout.
- Initiated data link software design and development efforts.
FY 2011 Plans:
Autonomous Real-time Ground Ubiquitous Surveillance - Infrared (ARGUS-IR)
- Build the IR FPAs.
- Complete the development and build of the optics for the IR sensor.
- Complete software and firmware development.
- Complete development of the airborne processing system hardware.
FY 2012 Plans:
Autonomous Real-time Ground Ubiquitous Surveillance - Infrared (ARGUS-IR)
The above mentioned can be found on pg's 346 & 7 within the link below...
http://www.darpa.mil/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=2400
There many other DARPA programs that our platform could operate within ... with a successful test / demo @ the N2S2 site ... imo
Maybe they’ll be impressed with Argus One and fund the development of the 230’ 0r Strat ... to house these new ( heavyish ) technologies
GLTAL’s & S’s
; )
BBB, and that $2.8 billion figure was from 2004 ... today it is “a $3.2 billion budget”
Some info on the role DARPA plays within the DOD ...
“DARPA is independent from other more conventional military R&D and reports directly to senior Department of Defense management.
DARPA's mission:
DARPA is a Defense Agency with a unique role within DoD. DARPA is not tied to a specific operational mission: DARPA supplies technological options for the entire Department, and is designed to be the “technological engine” for transforming DoD.
Near-term needs and requirements generally drive the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force to focus on those needs at the expense of major change. Consequently, a large organization like DoD needs a place like DARPA whose only charter is radical innovation.
DARPA looks beyond today’s known needs and requirements. As military historian John Chambers noted, “None of the most important weapons transforming warfare in the 20th century – the airplane, tank, radar, jet engine, helicopter, electronic computer, not even the atomic bomb – owed its initial development to a doctrinal requirement or request of the military.”[3] And to this list, DARPA would add unmanned systems, Global Positioning System (GPS) and Internet technologies.
DARPA’s approach is to imagine what capabilities a military commander might want in the future and accelerate those capabilities into being through technology demonstrations. These not only provide options to the commander, but also change minds about what is technologically possible today.
DARPA as a model:
• Acceptance of failure: DARPA pursues breakthrough opportunities and is very tolerant of technical failure if the payoff from success will be great enough.
Current program offices:
DARPA has six program offices, all of which report to the DARPA director.
• The Adaptive Execution Office (AEO) is one of two new DARPA offices created in 2009 by the current DARPA Director, Regina Dugan. Four thrust areas that have been identified, but not verified in DARPA publications: technology transition, assessment, rapid productivity and adaptive systems. On the DARPA website the AEO mission is defined as follows:
•
Conceive and execute novel technology and system developments that are adaptive both in end function and in the process by which they are developed. Improve the transition worthiness of DARPA programs across the enterprise.[10]
• The Defense Sciences Office (DSO) vigorously pursues the most promising technologies within a broad spectrum of the science and engineering research communities and develops those technologies into important, radically new military capabilities.[11]
• The Information Innovation Office (I2O) aims to ensure U.S. technological superiority in all areas where information can provide a decisive military advantage.
• The Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) mission focuses on the heterogeneous microchip-scale integration of electronics, photonics, and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). Their high risk/high payoff technology is aimed at solving the national level problems of protection from biological, chemical and information attack and to provide operational dominance for mobile distributed command and control, combined manned/unmanned warfare, and dynamic, adaptive military planning and execution.
• The Strategic Technology Office (STO) mission is to focus on technologies that have a global theater-wide impact and that involve multiple Services.[10]
• The Tactical Technology Office (TTO) engages in high-risk, high-payoff advanced military research, emphasizing the "system" and "subsystem" approach to the development of aeronautic, space, and land systems as well as embedded processors and control systems. This research includes an effort within the TTO to develop a small satellite launch vehicle.[12] This vehicle is under development by AirLaunch LLC.[13] This is part of the Force Application and Launch from Continental United States (FALCON) effort.”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DARPA
Even the mention of a "small satellite launch vehicle" ... sounds like a ( hoped ) WSGI / GTS capability?
; )