FAAD C2 System supporting air defense across Baltics

FAAD C2 System supporting air defense across Baltics
by Staff Writers
Huntsville AL (SPX) Jun 06, 2023

Northrop Grumman Corporation has successfully deployed its Forward Area Air Defense Command and Control (FAAD C2) system in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, bolstering air and missile defense interoperability across the Baltics, NATO, and U.S. forces. The technology modernizes these nations' air defense capabilities, significantly enhancing the region's security.

This fielding is part of a broader initiative aligning with the U.S. European Command's Integrated Air and Missile Defense Plan. It marks an important step in advancing the capabilities of these Baltic states to conduct short range air defense (SHORAD) and counter unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) missions.

In an effort to improve integration with NATO air defenses, Northrop Grumman conducted FAAD C2 training with the armies of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in the Baltic region.

FAAD C2 has been described as a "combat-proven, fielded system." It has the capacity to compile air track data from multiple sources, such as local sensors and external data links, and integrate it into a comprehensive air picture. This picture is then transmitted to all effectors within the architecture, supplying them with engagement orders and weapon control status.

The FAAD C2 system provides a level of situational awareness that is crucial for maintaining the readiness and effectiveness of air defense and maneuver units. Its deployment could potentially occur across several theaters of operation simultaneously, providing command and control for short-range air defense, C-UAS, and counter-rocket, artillery, and mortar missions.

Speaking on the benefits of the FAAD C2 system, Rebecca Torzone, Vice President and General Manager of Combat Systems and Mission Readiness at Northrop Grumman, stated, "FAAD C2 will enable the Baltic region forces to make faster, better-informed decisions to defeat short range and enemy unmanned aerial threats."

She further noted the system's potential for future enhancement, stating that its "battle-proven architecture allows for future integration of additional sensors and effectors, and its interoperability with NATO's integrated air and missile defense framework will enhance the region's security."

The successful deployment of the FAAD C2 system underscores the ongoing efforts to strengthen and modernize defense capabilities in the Baltic states. The move is expected to play a vital role in enhancing their ability to counter potential air and missile threats, thereby contributing to regional security and stability.