May 11, 2009 – ASTi recently completed the installation of an ASTi Synapse communications system at the 176th Air Control Squadron (ACS) at Elmendorf AFB, Alaska. The system is based on ASTi's Telestra 4 product line and provides the ACS with virtual radio operator stations dispersed across the facility. The ASTi Synapse system connects the ACS to the US military networks like the Distributed Mission Operations Network (DMON), providing voice intercommunications with a multitude of ASTi-equipped simulator sites. The ACS initially plans to use ASTi Synapse to provide critical voice links for Defense of the Homeland Against Asymmetric Missile Attacks (DoHMA) theatre missile defense exercises.

ASTi Synapse features modular, all-ethernet installation, which facilitated quick and easy installation into the customer's existing network infrastructure. Synapse also features the Studio software utilities which automates the generation and distribution of virtual communications (comm) plans. The ACS staff can quickly configure comm plans to include virtual ground-air radio nets, as well as intercom channels for battlestaff point-to-point or workgroup conference communications. Multiple ACE Studio comm plans can be archived for reuse.

ASTi's web-based Remote Management System (RMS) is integrated into every Synapse system, allowing site staff to monitor and manage ASTi hardware and software resources on the network. RMS is accessible with a standard web browser from anywhere on the network.

ASTi provided a complete customer support package to the 176th, including: on-site installation and training courses for system administrators and battlestaff and a technical support contract for ongoing assistance.

ASTi has been shipping Synapse live-to-virtual communications systems since 1999.

About the 176th Air Control Squadron:

The 176 ACS operates and maintains the Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Region Air Operations Center (RAOC). The RAOC is staffed by the Alaskan Air National Guard, who in conjunction with active-duty US Air Force and Canadian Air Command members, serve to protect air sovereignty and perform air control operations. A key duty of the RAOC is to detect and intercept aircraft that violate US or Canadian airspace. The RAOC is the only NORAD site that regularly intercepts foreign military aircraft, including Russian Tu-95 "Bear" long-range cruise missile carriers.

More Information: 176th Air Control Squandron