XCM-3

Secure, Modular Communications for CMOSS Architectures

The Leonardo DRS XCM-3 3U VPX module is a C5ISR/EW Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) and Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA)-aligned capability that integrates high-assurance cryptographic processing, software-defined radio (SDR) functions and an optional wideband radio-frequency (RF) transceiver capability.

With the combination of all these functions into one card, XCM-3 sets an industry standard by reducing up to three current communication card sets into a single card space, preserving space, power and cooling capacity for other mission capabilities. It provides a practical way to integrate secure Red and Black processing while maintaining the flexibility to evolve communications capabilities over time.

Key Capabilities:

• CMOSS and SOSA alignment
• 3U VPX form factor
• Integrated Cryptographic processing, SDR, Red and Black processing
• KOV-242 High Assurance Crypto and HAIPE functionality
• Optional wideband RF transceiver
• Support for multiple, simultaneous legacy and evolving waveform requirements

Design Benefits:

• Consolidate secure communications functions in fewer hardware modules
• Simplify system integration and sustainment
• Retain chassis capacity for additional mission functions
• Incorporate new waveforms and communications technologies over time
• Reduce the impact of upgrades on the broader mission-system architecture
• Designed to reduce chassis complexity and improve use of platform resources
• A modular hardware approach that supports future technology insertion

CSS, SDR and RF Capability in One Module

XCM-3 is a “radio terminal on a card” engineered for programs pursuing CMOSS, SOSA and Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) objectives. It combines critical cryptographic and communications functions in a common hardware architecture to reduce the number of separate modules required in a mission system.

XCM-3 is designed to maintain a controlled National Security Agency (NSA) certification boundary at the module level. This helps limit the certification impact of changes to SDR functions or the surrounding chassis, supporting a more manageable approach to system updates.

A Common Module for Secure Communications Upgrade

XCM-3 supports programs moving from dedicated, platform-specific communications hardware to a common VPX architecture.

Its design aligns with the goals of CMOSS, SOSA, MOSA and MORA.

XCM-3 provides programs with the ability to update communications functions as they change such as waveforms, software and platform needs.

Tactical Communications & RF 

Leonardo DRS develops and delivers tactical communications, EW, SIGINT, rugged computing and RF receiver technologies for defense missions.

The company has been an early supporter and implementer of CMOSS, MOSA and MORA initiatives, with experience delivering communications and RF capabilities across the joint force. These efforts include tactical terminal and RF receiver technologies for beyond-line-of-sight communications and intelligence missions supporting Integrated Broadcast Service (IBS) and Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) as well as many legacy waveforms.