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Open Mission Systems

Open Mission Systems (OMS) is a set of open, non-proprietary standards that define how different hardware and software components should connect and communicate within military aircraft and other mission systems. This allows for easier integration of new technologies and enables different vendors' equipment to work together seamlessly.

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Open Mission Systems (OMS) is a standardized, open architecture framework within military and defense, particularly for avionics and mission computing, designed to enhance interoperability, modularity, and vendor independence by defining common interfaces for hardware and software components, thereby reducing lifecycle costs and enabling rapid upgrades across various platforms including unmanned systems.

BACKGROUND

General Dynamics Mission Systems is a business unit of American defense and aerospace company General Dynamics. General Dynamics Mission Systems integrates secure communication and information systems and technology. General Dynamics Mission Systems has core manufacturing in secure communications networks; radios and satellite technology for the defense, cyber, public safety, and intelligence communities.

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SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • OMS standard
  • Open Systems Architecture (OSA)
  • Modular Mission Systems
  • Interoperable Avionics
  • Open Avionics Architecture

USAGE NOTE

OMS is crucial in military procurement to foster competition, reduce vendor lock-in, and accelerate the fielding of new capabilities and upgrades for manned and unmanned platforms.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Open Mission Systems.

  • Lockheed Martin

    As a major defense prime contractor, Lockheed Martin actively develops and integrates Open Mission Systems (OMS) compliant technologies into its various platforms, including combat aircraft and maritime systems, to enhance interoperability, reduce integration costs, and accelerate capability insertion.

  • Northrop Grumman

    Northrop Grumman is deeply committed to open architectures, including OMS, for its advanced defense systems. They develop hardware and software solutions that adhere to OMS standards to ensure modularity, scalability, and rapid technological upgrades across their air, space, and ground platforms.

  • Boeing Defense, Space & Security

    Boeing applies Open Mission Systems principles to its defense portfolio, developing and integrating mission systems for military aircraft and other platforms. Their focus on OMS aims to improve system flexibility, reduce development timelines, and facilitate seamless integration of third-party technologies.

  • L3Harris Technologies

    L3Harris Technologies develops secure communications, integrated mission systems, and electronic warfare solutions that leverage open architectures like OMS. Their work focuses on providing adaptable and upgradeable systems that can integrate diverse capabilities for military operations.

  • Collins Aerospace (RTX)

    A subsidiary of RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies), Collins Aerospace develops advanced avionics, integrated mission systems, and communication solutions that are compliant with Open Mission Systems standards. They provide critical components and software that enable open architecture platforms for military aircraft.

  • BAE Systems

    BAE Systems develops and integrates Open Mission Systems concepts into its defense and security products, ranging from electronic warfare systems to combat vehicles and aircraft. Their approach focuses on creating modular, adaptable, and cost-effective solutions for military customers.

  • General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI)

    GA-ASI develops unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and related technologies with a strong emphasis on open architectures, including OMS. This allows for rapid integration of new payloads, sensors, and capabilities, enhancing the versatility and mission effectiveness of their Predator and Reaper series.

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