FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., May 20, 2008 — The U.S. Air Force, facing the ever-present challenge of sharing, recording and accessing Internet-based information from remote locations, today is relying on a highly functional, affordable and portable solution from D-Link, an end-to-end provider of computer networking solutions for government and business organizations as well as consumers.
It is important for non-classified communications to be shared on secure, encrypted networks. Such information might involve field operations that manage multiple aircraft in remote locations requiring personnel support and information systems to communicate with Air Force bases all over the country. These bases and the Department of Defense need to know which operations are going on where and what’s happening in real time.
Specific data, like maintenance records, aircraft health and mission details, must be communicated, and USAF personnel need to stay in touch with family and relatives from their remote sites.
According to technical sergeant and USAF spokesperson Aaron (last name withheld for security reasons), the Air Force needs a networking system that is portable, flexible, reliable and works remotely. The solution is a series of D-Link® 3G mobile routers (DIR-450) that enable secure wireless 802.11g connectivity using Verizon cell service and Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO) cards.
He said the DIR-450 routers are installed in remote base camps and perform according to plan – they help communications with the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center, local agencies and friends and family. The cost of installation was under $1,000, said Aaron, saving approximately $249,000 compared to the cost of a large enterprise network system.
“The coverage is awesome,” he said. “One router, for instance, covers our entire flight line, administrative offices and outlying areas that contain multiple aircraft, carts and other heavy equipment.” He recommends the same solution for all kinds of government agencies involved in field work, including firefighters, police departments, search and rescue operations and forestry.