Avionics fiber-optic and photonics network preliminary technology readiness assessment

Fiber-optic technology deployment on military platforms is driving the need to re-assess fiber optics and photonics technology readiness for next generation avionics systems. The AEROLAN initiative unveiled at the 22nd DASC and subsequently kicked off at the IEEE LEOS avionics fiber-optics and Photonics Workshop (AVFOP 2004), provides the impetus for a technology readiness assessment (TRA) of the Naval aviation fiber-optics and photonics technology infrastructure. TRA is a valuable methodology for defining technology maturity and making technology investment decisions. Technology readiness levels (TRLs) combined with product assessment scales (PAs) are useful elements for assessing readiness prior to formulating research, development, and test and evaluation (RDT&E) objectives, and subsequent technology transition planning. This paper provides the reader insight into NAVAIR's preliminary readiness assessment of avionics fiber optics and photonics technology for the next generation.