ID Systems

The ID Systems program, as outlined in Budget Line Item 2851 for the Navy, is a comprehensive procurement and modernization effort focused on Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems and related aviation electronic equipment. The overarching goal is to ensure secure, reliable, and interoperable identification capabilities for Navy combatant ships, selected auxiliaries, patrol craft, and Coast Guard vessels. This program supports both operational requirements and compliance with the National Airspace System, enhancing combat identification, air traffic control, and anti-air warfare missions.

The program addresses obsolescence, reliability, and cyber security needs through incremental upgrades, engineering change proposals, and the integration of advanced technologies.

The Mark XII/Mark XIIA Common Digital Transponder effort aims to replace aging transponder systems that no longer meet reliability and maintainability standards. The objective is to procure and install open-architecture digital transponders that support Mode 5 and Mode S capabilities, enabling secure cooperative identification and future system growth. This line item includes recurring procurement, support, and installation activities, with BAE Systems LP as the primary manufacturer. The inventory objective is derived from Navy fleet data and ship program schedules.

AN/UPX 24(V) Mode S focuses on incorporating Mode S capability into shipboard IFF interrogators, improving combat identification of commercial and neutral aircraft. The upgrades include hardware and software changes to interface with ship combat systems, supporting both legacy and new construction ships. The program is managed by NAWCAD and involves recurring procurement, support, and installation. The enhancements are aligned with Aegis Modernization schedules and ship availability.

Mark XII Mode 5 delivers improved secure cooperative combat identification by upgrading digital interrogators and transponders across the fleet. Mode 5 is a product improvement mandated by joint operational requirements, including cryptography and hardware/software changes for both Fleet Modernization Plan and non-FMP installations. The program includes procurement of kits for various platforms, support equipment, and training, with installations managed according to ship class and operational needs.

Mode S Digital Interrogator enhances shipboard IFF systems by adding Mode S beacon interrogation capability, which is critical for air traffic control automation in dense environments. The upgrades provide more accurate aircraft positional data and support digital data link communications. The program involves procurement, support, and installation of new digital interrogators, with BAE Systems LP as the manufacturer and an inventory objective based on fleet requirements.

OE-120/UPX Antenna upgrades legacy antenna systems to improve reliability and maintainability. The upgrade kits use open architecture and current technology, supporting continued production and future enhancements. The program addresses parts obsolescence and updates operating system software for information assurance compliance. Procurement, support, and installation activities are scheduled according to ship availability and technology refresh cycles.

AN/UPX-46 Processor System and AN/UPX-36 Replacement are targeted at replacing unique shipboard IFF interrogator systems with common hardware configurations that meet Mode 5 requirements. These upgrades standardize equipment across ship classes, reduce maintenance complexity, and ensure compliance with operational requirements documents. The programs include procurement of systems and kits, support engineering, and installation, managed by NAWCAD WOLF.

Radar Track Discriminator System (RTDS) AN/UPX-34A provides non-cooperative target recognition capability for Aegis Cruisers, supporting timely tactical engagement decisions and reducing rules of engagement concerns. Upgrades incorporate additional target libraries, enhance system performance, and ensure accurate identification of civilian versus military aircraft. The program includes procurement, support, and installation activities, with a focus on integration and certification for combat system compatibility.

DDG 1000 Modernization addresses the Zumwalt Class IFF Sensor Suite, implementing product improvements and engineering changes for electronically scanned array antennas, interrogators, and transponders. The modernization ensures cyber resiliency, mitigates obsolescence, and supports product support elements for the DDG 1000 fleet. Procurement and support activities are managed by NAWC, with installations scheduled according to ship availability.

UPneXt is a modernization initiative for the AN/UPX-24(V) system, focusing on software, firmware, and hardware updates to address obsolescence, consolidate configurations, and integrate with future Navy combat suites. The program also ensures network and cyber security compliance, supporting the evolving needs of the surface Navy. Initial logistics and production engineering support are included to facilitate the transition and integration of new technologies.