FEATURES Bootstrapping in Africa Africom examines information sharing for nations short on infrastructure. Interoperability path opens Training range builds data bridge for joint exercises. Remote-sensor technology within reach, beyond grasp DHS ‘virtual fence’ and Army’s FCS test limits of networked sensors. Message convergence rolls on As networking technology continues to improve and additional bandwidth becomes available, there will be the opportunity for additional consolidation. High bandwidth With mounting pressure for high-bandwidth connectivity for forces in the field, and concern about available satellite communications, a number of programs are seeking to revive an old technology — airships. Switches with wings: UAVs as comm relays Giant blimps are not the only vehicles capable of stratospheric flight. Fixed-wing aircraft such as the Lockheed U-2 have done it for decades. DEPARTMENTS LETTERS FROM THE EDITOR The risks of thinking big UPFRONT GAO says FCS threatened by software bloat UPFRONT USAF spends on flexible microcircuits UPFRONT A virtual plane for Navy techs AGENCY RECON On the fly
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