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The first live classified data share outside the United States between an F-35 fighter jet and Dutch command and control environment Keystone has been achieved at multi-domain operations Exercise Ramstein Flag.
Dutch F-35s operating in an anti-access/area denial environment, successfully detected, identified and passed targeting data on multiple simulated ground effectors via multifunction advanced datalink through a Skunk Works’ Open Systems Gateway into Keystone during the exercise.
In this real-time live fly exercise, Keystone then transmitted the data to a rocket artillery platform which engaged a ground target and confirmed a successful takedown, effectively closing the loop within a matter of minutes from start to finish.
“Ramstein Flag was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of collaboration between United States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA), and Skunk Works,” Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) Air Commodore Bert “Vida” de Smit said.
“We are thrilled with the results and look forward to continuing this work with our partners to drive innovation and advance our integrated battlespace capabilities.”
The achievement, showcased by Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and the RNLAF, reportedly represents a significant step forward in multi-domain integration and F-35 interoperability between several allied nations in real time.
Unlocking the vast amount of data from an F-35, the Skunk Works OSG enables allied air and missile defence systems to receive precise targeting information, allowing them to detect, track and defeat threats more effectively, according to Lockheed Martin.
“The combined joint all-domain capabilities demonstrated at Ramstein Flag are a breakthrough in multi-domain operations, emphasizing the F-35’s ability to seamlessly integrate with our international partners’ C2 environments,” Lockheed Martin Skunk Works vice president and general manager OJ Sanchez said.
“This achievement is a testament to the strength of our partnerships with the RNLAF and USAFE-AFAFRICA. Lockheed Martin is accelerating delivery of novel MDO capabilities that enhance the effectiveness of our allies’ F-35 fleets to ensure peace through allied strength.”
The enhanced situational awareness, and interoperability empowers joint forces to respond more quickly and decisively, ultimately strengthening collective defence of partners and allies, according to the company.
