OREANDA-NEWS. Ensuring the Ballistic Missile Defense System operates as a unified, secure network amid emerging threats is the mission of the Command, Control, Battle Management and Communications (C2BMC) team led by Lockheed Martin. Missile Defense Agency Director Vice Adm. James D. Syring recently recognized the team’s exceptional commitment and advancements with the 2016 Ronald Reagan Missile Defense technology achievement award during a ceremony at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

The cornerstone of the U.S. Ballistic Missile Defense System, C2BMC connects autonomous sensors, weapon systems, and fire control to create a global network capable of intercepting and destroying missiles during any phase of flight. The MDA recognized the C2BMC team for developing "game changing" software algorithms that enable the Ballistic Missile Defense System to better track missiles, better distinguish between targets and non-targets and ensure the most efficient use of interceptors during missile defense engagements.

“Our entire team is honored by the recognition from MDA. The award is validation of the partnership that the C2BMC team has with MDA and the warfighters,” said Dr. Rob Smith, vice president of C4ISR for Lockheed Martin. “Evolving missile threats put increased pressure on every individual sensor and weapon system in the Ballistic Missile Defense System. C2BMC integrates the best target data from each element to enable warfighters to expand the defended area with greater intercept confidence.”

C2BMC collects and integrates tracking and status data from disparate Ballistic Missile Defense System elements so that commanders at various locations have the same integrated operating picture and can make coordinated decisions about deploying weapons. This allows central commanders to select the most effective weapons to engage threat ballistic missiles.

C2BMC is fielded in 33 locations, including U.S. Strategic, Northern, European, Pacific, and Central Commands. The system operates 24/7 over 17 time zones and is supported by more than 48,000 miles of Defense Information Systems Agency communication lines.