Exelis has received orders valued at $7.6 million from ADS, Inc. on behalf of the U.S. Department of Defense through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Tailored Logistics Support (TLS) program to provide mission command on-the-move systems. The systems will be used for undisclosed worldwide deployments.

Called Global Network on the Move-Active Distribution, or GNOMAD, the system provides a broadband, satellite communication (SATCOM) on-the-move (SOTM) networked command and control connectivity. With GNOMAD, Exelis delivers a combat-proven, modular, reliable communications system that fully integrates into a variety of armored combat vehicles, commercial SUVs, and military platforms of all descriptions.

GNOMAD is based on an open system architecture, using low profile antennae designs, in a reduced size, weight and power profile. The system has previously supported deployed U.S. Army units and the Department of Homeland Security during critical domestic emergency response missions.

This delivery of GNOMAD systems also includes ground station satellite hubs, training and installation services and the ability to leverage commercial Ku satellite services and, once certified, X Band satellite services on the DoD Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) Constellation. The SR300X is beginning WGS certification and the SR-300Ka will be available to begin WGS certification in the spring of 2015. At only 28 pounds, the SR-300 series antenna can be removed and replaced in less than 10 minutes providing increased flexibility on the battlefield.

“GNOMAD is a proven mission essential command and control on-the-move solution ideal for the difficult communications environment that Army units operate in daily while deployed,” said Nick Bobay, president of the Exelis Night Vision and Communications Solutions division. “As a leader in satellite network technology for the U.S. military and its international allies, we are proud to have worked with ADS to have GNOMAD deployed again in a combat environment where ease of use, multiple vehicle integration and dependable communication are critical.”

Production for this contract will be accomplished at the Exelis facility in Fort Wayne, Ind., with deliveries completed by March 2015.