The possible linkage of two separate systems for a more complete global missile defense network is being conducted by an industry team led by Lockheed Martin.

The linkage would be between the U.S. Missile Defense Agency's integrated command and control system, or C2BMC, with the U.S. Army's Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System.

"Potential air and ballistic missile threats may cross regions and outpace the capabilities of individual missile defense systems operated by one service," said Dr. Rob Smith, vice president of C4ISR for Lockheed Martin Information Systems and Global Solutions. "Linking C2BMC with the Army's system will be a step toward a more powerful integrated air and ballistic missile defense capability."

C2BMC is a system that integrates separate elements (etc.) of the ballistic missile defense system - such as Aegis, THAAD, SBIRS -- into a global network that can link any sensor, any shooter, at any phase of missile flight in any region, against any type of ballistic threat.

The system was first deployed in 2004. It is fielded in 33 locations in more than 17 time zones and is supported by more than 48,000 miles of Defense Information Systems Agency communication lines.

The Lockheed-led Missile Defense National Team - members include Northrop Grumman, Boeing, Raytheon, General Dynamics and others - is studying the feasibility of the C2BMC system with the Army system to provide the United States with an advanced capability enabling more complete air and ballistic missile situational awareness.

The study involves identifying potential interface changes that would pave the way for the joining of the two systems.