Direct Dissemination Element (DDE)

The Direct Dissemination Element (DDE) is a family of portable hardware and software that use commercial and open-market technologies to assure data dissemination via line-of-site and satellite communication links.

Applications
The DDE system has two current applications. It is used to disseminate sensor imagery, display geo-registered flight path information over map-backgrounds, and handle e-mail and voice communications among operational participants in the Global Hawk Unmanned Aerial Vehicle flight demonstrations. DDE is also used as a ground control station for the Vigilante Unmanned Helicopter. Potential applications are unlimited given the needs of remote connectivity via land lines and satellite links for the dissemination of any data type.

Features
Key functionality includes: Situational Awareness (navigation and collection plans, air vehicle status, GMTI), retasking (various sensor types, line-of-sight calculations, auto and manual tasking), dissemination of collected imagery, and support for multiple platforms and sensors in different classes and parameter files. The DDE Lite is a laptop PC that connects to the DDE Master via PPP phone connections (typically 2.4 kbps for an encrypted link). The Lite allows situational awareness and retasking. The DDE Master and Remotes are in ruggedized containers.

Benefits
DDE can be used as an inexpensive communications node. It can also function as a UAV Ground Station, taking advantage of its proprietary imagery viewer. Ruggedized packaging allows DDE to be shipped quickly and safely by commercial or military transport. DDE has successfully participated in and performed well for many military exercises.

Science Applications International Corp, 11251 Roger Bacon Dr, Po Box 4875, Reston, VA 22090. Tel: 703-3184636; Fax: 703-709-1042.