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02 6 2017

The Messenger of the Sea

One single messenger

NATO Maritime Command and Control (C2) Information Services currently consist of a number of operational systems, which are used by different Nations and Commands on various platforms. The lack of a consolidated system has prevented maritime operations communications from being as seamless as they could be. Project Triton, which is being acquired by the NCI Agency as Host Nation, aims to remedy this situation.

This NATO common-funded project is within the Bi-Strategic Command Automated Information System architecture, and aims to replace the current aging systems. Triton covers all procurement and implementation activities in support of Maritime C2.

Full mission spectrum

Triton services will provide the tools for NATO operational users to plan and execute the full spectrum of maritime missions in a joint environment. They will enable the operators to share a common view of the battle space, improving their situational awareness and decision-making processes.

Once the project is procured through International Competitive Bidding, the road for future growth will become wide open. Triton's first Increment will aim to collect maritime track information from NATO sources and Nations to build a Recognized Maritime Picture depicting all military maritime activity, and to collect data from commercial sources to build up a White (Shipping) Picture, to map the traffic of merchant vessels.

Among further improvements, Triton's second Increment will focus on Maritime Operational Planning and Execution, and the complete implementation of Naval Mine Warfare Planning, Execution and Evaluation.

Accessible beyond borders

Triton will be a centralized, web-based application allowing operational users from the NATO Command Structure and National Headquarters to access its functions from any location.

It will first be tested and evaluated during ongoing operations and exercises by Maritime Command (MARCOM) in Northwood, UK.

The tool providing imagery for Triton will be delivered as a re-usable software component, so that it may be used for mapping and user interface in other C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) systems as well.

Testing the messenger in collaboration

The NATO Centre of Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) in La Spezia, Italy, will provide basic research and prototype development support which will then be formally applied during the implementation of the project.

Meanwhile, NCI Agency, SHAPE, ACT and MARCOM users are participating in conferences, workshops and working groups to adjust the system's specification and implementation process during its test phase.

Once live, the Agency will be responsible for providing lifecycle support, with the CIS Support Unit Northwood taking on the critical role of providing primary support to the Maritime Community.

Stronger together

Once Triton is tested and fully procured, it will be a common platform for monitoring military maritime activities throughout the entire Alliance. Nations and Commands will be able to share their maritime operations and exercises information live, in a consolidated system, so that Triton can live up to its name and become a true Messenger of the Sea for NATO and its Partners.