Mercury Systems has secured a $12.3-million contract from an undisclosed defense partner to develop advanced avionics technology for future US military aircraft.
Under the three-year agreement, Mercury will design a Communication Management Unit (CMU) control head — a key subsystem that will unify and manage multiple cockpit communication systems for next-generation aircraft.
The CMU aims to replace several independent communication control heads with a single, integrated interface, streamlining cockpit operations.
Communication Management Unit Features
The software-defined CMU can consolidate up to eight radios, as well as tactical air navigation, transponder, and GPS equipment from various manufacturers.
It incorporates backlit buttons, ergonomic knobs, and a high-resolution, night-vision-compatible display, ensuring ease of use in all conditions.
Pilots can switch channels, tune frequencies, and alternate between communication systems efficiently — even during low visibility or turbulent flight scenarios.
The open-architecture design enables future upgrades via software updates instead of hardware changes, reducing costs, enhancing flexibility, and simplifying training and integration.
