However, maritime security missions, policing and coast guard duties are usually carried out by smaller units such as patrol boats or interceptors. With limited budgets and scarce crew availability, a full-scale CMS can be too much to handle for these lighter types of ships and missions.

Enter the SYNTACS system, an integrated solution for command and control and situational awareness from Raytheon Anschütz, a business of Raytheon Technologies.

“SYNTACS is a versatile application to extend the integrated navigation capabilities aboard to mission management or combat systems for small and medium platforms,” said Dr. Thomas Lehmann, head of Integrated Mission Solutions at Raytheon Anschütz.

SYNTACS forms a system of systems and integrates data from multiple onboard sensors like navigation or surveillance radars, sonars, video from electro-optical or visual surveillance systems, data from navigational and automation systems, and ballistic modules that control weapon stations.

SYNTACS features smart data filtering, calculates mission-relevant information, compiles the situational picture and provides it in real time to every workstation. It also includes tactical features and tools for maneuvering, including Identification Friend or Foe. IFF aids patrol vessels in surveillance and policing operations, and maritime forces that direct helicopters or control the airspace.

“The overarching objective of SYNTACS is to support efficient mission planning and execution,” Lehmann said. “Starting as an essential dashboard for tactical navigation and situational awareness, a range of modules is available to boost the platform’s capabilities as required by future missions.”

A modular approach enables SYNTACS to deliver on all features, from navigation and mission planning to surveillance, situation analysis and detection, and engagement and fire control. SYNTACS can include:

• Tactical navigation
• Situational awareness and command and control (C2)
• Mission management and mission data recording
• Hydrographic search and mine countermeasures
• Data links and a common shared operational picture between ships and land stations
• Remote control capability of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs)
• Weapon integration.
  
  

“SYNTACS ensures interoperability and enables a common shared operating picture across the fleet and including shore-based operation centers to cope with the emerging requirements of future security missions,” Lehmann said. “Together, this makes SYNTACS a capable mission and CMS solution for small and medium naval platforms, effective in terms of space, manning and training.”

Already, there are more than 60 fielded SYNTACS systems supporting global customers in low- to medium-intense mission scenarios, mostly related to surveillance tasks and maritime interdiction operations in coastal and shallow waters.

Learn more about SYNTACS