Boeing has announced that it has installed the first Gigabit Ethernet Data Multiplex System (GEDMS) on the USS Spruance (DDG 111), a newly constructed Arleigh Burke-Class guided-missile destroyer.
GEDMS is a data transfer network that provides a highly reliable, redundant, mission-critical network backbone to any ship in the U.S. Navy inventory. The Spruance was commissioned Oct. 1 during a ceremony at Naval Air Station Key West, Fla.
"Inclusion of GEDMS in the Navy's DDG modernization program highlights the continued confidence the Navy has in our ability to provide innovative and advanced solutions to the fleet," said Chris Devine, director of Information Dominance for Boeing subsidiary Argon ST.
"Commissioning of the USS Spruance marks the successful completion of nearly two years of hard work and dedication by Argon in cooperation with the U.S. Navy."
The Spruance is the first combat-ready destroyer to be outfitted with GEDMS as part of the Navy's ongoing modernization effort. The ship is designed to operate in multi-threat air, surface and subsurface environments.
GEDMS, the most recent upgrade to the Data Multiplex System (DMS) family of networks, offers enhanced network communication capabilities by providing an IP-based backbone that supports multimedia services such as video and data.
GEDMS provides increased capabilities to support data transfer for the upgraded hull, mechanical, and electrical systems introduced into the fleet with DDG 111.
Additional benefits include manpower reduction and increased crew safety by using video and sensors for monitoring of remote or confined spaces.
