This document describes Galleon Embedded Computing’s approach to systems integration for defense applications, with a particular focus on VPX and SOSA-aligned solutions. The document covers the complete integration methodology, from requirements analysis through deployment, and provides practical examples of successful implementations in mission-critical environments.
1.
Introduction
System integration in defense applications presents unique challenges that require specialized expertise to address effectively. This white paper outlines a structured approach to integrating complex defense systems, with an emphasis on software, hardware and environmental considerations that impact deployability and performance.
The defense industry has increasingly moved toward modular, standards-based architectures to improve interoperability, reduce costs and accelerate deployment timelines. Despite standardization efforts, integrating these components into cohesive, rugged systems that can withstand extreme operational conditions remains complex and risky without proper expertise.
This document is aimed at program managers, systems engineers and technical decision-makers working with military data management systems, aerospace mission computers and other mission-critical defense technologies who are seeking guidance on effective system integration approaches for defense applications. While focused on technical aspects, the core concepts should be accessible to readers without deep software or hardware development backgrounds.
First, a brief introduction to systems integration challenges in defense contexts is provided, followed by an examination of the VPX and SOSA standards that form the foundation of modern military computing systems. Then, the Galleon integration methodology is presented in detail, followed by example implementations displaying how this approach resolves common integration challenges. The document concludes with a summary of best practices and recommendations.
2.
Background
2.1 System Integration Challenges in Defense Applications
Defense systems integration involves coordinating hardware, software, mechanical, thermal and power subsystems into a cohesive whole that reliably performs under extreme conditions. Key challenges include:
- Ruggedization requirements for deployment in high shock, vibration, and temperature environments
- Power management constraints in mobile or airborne platforms
- Complex I/O integration across multiple standards and protocols
- Size, weight, and power (SWaP) optimization needs
- Security and information assurance requirements
- Long-term supportability and obsolescence management
- Standards compliance (MIL-STD-810, DO-160, etc.)
- Cost
2.2 VPX and SOSA Standards
OpenVPX (VITA 65) has emerged as the premier standard for high-performance embedded computing in defense applications. This standard defines mechanical, electrical and communication protocols that enable interoperability between components from different manufacturers.
The Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA) technical standard builds upon VPX to further enhance interoperability, defining additional constraints that ensure compatibility across platforms. Pre-configured architectures allow for simplified selection and integration of suitable COTS HW and components. SOSA-aligned systems offer benefits including:
- Reduced integration risk
- Accelerated deployment timelines
- Enhanced technology insertion capability
- Lower lifecycle costs
- Vendor independence
Modern defense platforms increasingly rely on mission-ready data management systems and aerospace data storage solutions that comply with these standards. From military tactical servers to rugged network attached storage (NAS) systems, SOSA-aligned architectures ensure that army data storage systems and aerospace data recorders can be seamlessly integrated across platforms.
3.
Galleon Integration Methodology
Galleon’s systems integration approach follows a structured methodology developed through decades of defense program experience. This methodology consists of five key phases:
3.1 Requirements Analysis
The integration process begins with a comprehensive analysis of system requirements, including:
- Performance specifications
- Interface requirements
- Environmental conditions
- SWaP constraints
- Program timelines and budgetary considerations
- Security requirements
- Standards compliance
During this phase, systems architects build close working relationships with customers to develop a detailed understanding of the application context and operational needs that will drive design decisions.
3.2 Architecture Design
Based on the requirements analysis, the system architecture is defined to optimize for:
- Processing performance
- I/O capabilities
- Power management
- Thermal characteristics
- Ruggedization approach
- Maintainability
- Future expansion
This phase includes the selection of appropriate and available standards-based components and the definition of any custom elements required to meet specific program needs.
3.3 Integration Engineering
The integration engineering phase focuses on the detailed design and implementation of:
- Electrical interfaces
- Signal integrity
- Software drivers
- Mechanical integration
- Thermal management solutions
- Power distribution
This phase addresses the practical challenges of connecting diverse components into a functional system, ensuring that all interfaces operate reliably and with optimum bandwidth while meeting environmental requirements.
3.4 Verification and Validation
Verifying complex integrated systems requires specialized test methodologies. Galleon’s approach includes:
- Automated functional testing
- Environmental qualification
- Performance verification
- Interface compliance testing
- Stress testing
- Security validation
Highly automated, purpose-built test systems provide repeatable validation of all system functions under various operating conditions.
3.5 Deployment Support
Following successful verification, deployment support ensures smooth field introduction:
- Installation guidance
- Training support
- Technical documentation
- Field service engineering
- Long-term maintenance planning
- Technology refresh roadmaps
4.
Case Study: Infantry Fighting Vehicle Video System
4.1 Requirements Overview
A modern infantry fighting vehicle requires advanced video processing capabilities for situational awareness, targeting, and crew interfaces. Key requirements included:
- Multiple video input sources (cameras, sensors)
- High-resolution display outputs
- Seamless, real-time signal conversion and processing
- Network video distribution
- Operation in extreme environments
- Compliance with vehicle power constraints
- Integration with existing vehicle systems
4.2 System Architecture
Based on these requirements, a VPX-based system was designed with the following components:
- High-performance FPGA processing modules
- Video capture and compression boards
- Network interface modules
- Mission-ready, rugged display interfaces
- Military grade power management subsystem
4.3 Integration Challenges and Solutions
Several key challenges were addressed during the integration phase:
4.3.1 Interface Management
The system required 48 interfaces across 13 connectors, including:
-
- DisplayPort 1.3 (32.4 Gbps)
- Multiple 3G-SDI interfaces
- 10G Ethernet (optical and copper)
- USB3.x
Solution: Custom backplane design with optimized signal routing and impedance matching ensured signal integrity across all interfaces.
4.3.2 Thermal Management
High-performance processing in a confined space presented thermal challenges.
Solution: Advanced thermal modeling and a combination of conduction and forced-air cooling to maintain component temperatures within operating ranges.
4.3.3 Software Integration
Multiple interface types required coordinated software management.
Solution: Leveraging manufacturer-provided Board Support Packages (BSPs) as a foundation for our test and verification system, enabling consistent control and validation across diverse hardware elements.
4.4 Verification Approach
A comprehensive verification strategy included:
- Automated test sequences for all interfaces
- Environmental chamber testing for temperature extremes
- Vibration and shock testing
- EMI/EMC compliance validation
- Extended duration reliability testing
Figure below illustrates the system architecture, showing interconnections between components and external interfaces.
4.5 Deployment Results
The integrated system has been successfully deployed in mission-critical applications across land-based platforms, delivering:
- Reliable operation in extreme environments
- Consistent performance under varying conditions
- Simplified maintenance through modular design
- Reduced program risk through comprehensive verification
5.
Best Practices for Defense System Integration
Based on Galleon’s extensive experience, the following best practices are recommended for successful system integration:
5.1 Standards Alignment
- Leverage established standards (VPX, SOSA) where possible
- Define interface control documents (ICDs) for all connections
- Maintain compliance documentation throughout the development process
5.2 Integration Risk Management
- Identify critical interfaces early in the design process
- Prototype high-risk elements before full system integration
- Establish clear performance metrics for verification
- Implement progressive integration of subsystems
- Establish early and open customer involvement
5.3 Environmental Considerations
- Design for the full environmental envelope
- Incorporate margin in thermal and power designs
- Validate performance at environmental extremes
- Consider all deployment scenarios in requirements
5.4 Lifecycle Planning
- Document all integration decisions and rationales
- Plan for technology insertion and refresh
- Address obsolescence proactively
- Ensure aerospace data management systems remain supportable throughout extended deployment cycles
- Establish maintenance and support procedures
6.
Summary
Effective system integration represents a critical success factor for defense programs. The methodology outlined in this document provides a structured approach to addressing the complex challenges of integrating advanced computing systems for deployment in demanding environments.
By combining standards-based architectures with proven integration practices, programs can reduce risk, accelerate deployment, and ensure reliable operation in mission-critical scenarios. Galleon’s experience across hundreds of defense programs demonstrates that a disciplined approach to systems integration delivers significant benefits throughout the system lifecycle.
For more information on Galleon’s systems integration capabilities, contact us at info@galleonec.com