Curtiss-Wright Secures Key Defense Contract: Rugged Networking Solutions for Knight Ryder ISR Program

May 06,2025

The Contract: Curtiss-Wright to Supply Rugged Networking for Knight Ryder Program

Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions division has secured a contract with Sierra Nevada Corporation to provide rugged Ethernet switches and routers for the Knight Ryder program, which utilizes Pilatus PC-12 aircraft equipped with advanced ISR capabilities.

Key Details of the Agreement:

Products Supplied:

Parvus DuraMAR® 5915 routers

Parvus DuraNET® 3000 switches

Contract Value: Approximately $530,000 (initial phase)

Delivery Timeline: Shipments began in July 2013, continuing into early 2014

Lynn Bamford, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: "We are pleased to provide our proven, cost-effective, Cisco-based Ethernet technology for Sierra Nevada’s critical Knight Ryder program. Our rugged, SWaP-optimized subsystems enable standardized ISR configurations on payload-limited aircraft like the PC-12." This contract reinforces Curtiss-Wright’s role as a trusted provider of military-grade networking solutions for defense and aerospace applications.

Rugged Networking Technology: Built for Demanding Environments

The Parvus DuraMAR® 5915 routers and DuraNET® 3000 switches are designed to meet the strict requirements of military and aerospace operations, where reliability and durability are critical.

Key Features of Curtiss-Wright’s Rugged Networking Solutions:

Military-Grade Durability – Resistant to shock, vibration, extreme temperatures, and electromagnetic interference (EMI).

SWaP-Optimized Design – Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) efficiency is crucial for small aircraft like the PC-12.

COTS-Based Architecture – Uses Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) components for cost efficiency without compromising performance.

Secure Data Transmission – Supports encrypted communications for sensitive ISR data.

Cisco Compatibility – Ensures seamless integration with existing defense networks.

These features make Curtiss-Wright’s solutions ideal for ISR missions, where real-time data transfer between aircraft and ground forces is essential.

Enhancing ISR Missions: How Rugged Networking Supports Defense Operations

The Knight Ryder program relies on Pilatus PC-12 aircraft equipped with ISR systems to gather and transmit critical battlefield intelligence. Curtiss-Wright’s networking technology plays a pivotal role in:

A. Real-Time Data Transmission

Enables high-speed transfer of video feeds, sensor data, and communications between the aircraft and ground stations.

Supports secure, low-latency networking for tactical decision-making.

B. Interoperability with Military Networks

Facilitates integration with U.S. and allied forces’ command-and-control (C2) systems.

Ensures compatibility with existing defense communication protocols.

C. Reliability in Harsh Conditions

Performs flawlessly in extreme temperatures, high altitudes, and combat zones.

Reduces downtime with ruggedized, maintenance-free operation.

By enhancing data reliability and connectivity, these systems improve mission success rates in critical ISR operations.

The Bigger Picture: The Role of Rugged Networking in Modern Defense

The defense sector is increasingly adopting ruggedized COTS networking solutions for several reasons:

A. Cost Efficiency vs. Custom Military Hardware

COTS-based systems reduce development costs while maintaining high performance.

Faster deployment compared to bespoke military-grade hardware.

B. Adaptability Across Platforms

The same technology can be used in aircraft, ground vehicles, and naval systems.

Supports modular upgrades as mission requirements evolve.

C. Future-Proofing Military Communications

Supports emerging technologies like AI-driven analytics, 5G, and IoT in defense.

Enables network-centric warfare strategies for superior battlefield awareness.

This trend highlights why Curtiss-Wright’s rugged networking solutions are in high demand across global defense programs.

Future Trends: What’s Next for Military Networking Technology?

As defense needs evolve, military networking solutions are expected to advance in several key areas:

A. AI and Machine Learning Integration

Predictive maintenance for networking hardware.

Automated data processing for faster intelligence analysis.

B. Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures

Quantum-resistant encryption for ultra-secure communications.

Blockchain-based authentication to prevent cyber threats.

C. Expansion of Battlefield IoT (Internet of Military Things - IoMT)

More connected sensors and drones feeding real-time data into networks.

Edge computing for faster decision-making in the field.

Curtiss-Wright and similar defense contractors will likely lead innovation in these areas, ensuring next-gen military networking capabilities.

Conclusion: A Strategic Win for Curtiss-Wright and Defense Communications

The contract between Curtiss-Wright and Sierra Nevada Corporation underscores the importance of rugged, reliable networking solutions in modern defense operations. By supplying DuraMAR® routers and DuraNET® switches for the Knight Ryder ISR program, Curtiss-Wright reinforces its position as a leader in military-grade communications technology. As defense networks become more advanced, the demand for SWaP-optimized, secure, and interoperable systems will only grow. Companies like Curtiss-Wright are well-positioned to drive this evolution, ensuring that military forces worldwide remain connected, informed, and mission-ready.

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Curtiss-Wright Secures Key Defense Contract: Rugged Networking Solutions for Knight Ryder ISR Program

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