Assessment of photonics for advanced integrated avionics processors-PAVE PACE

It is suggested that advanced photonics offers major benefits to next-generation military avionics in terms of performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The trends in photonic technologies are discussed, and their applicability for use in integrated avionics systems is assessed. Optical switching, interconnection, and processing are discussed, as well as the potential benefits to advanced architectures such as PAVE PACE. It is concluded that the movement and management of large amounts of data in upcoming systems will not be possible without optics. The major impact will be the widespread use of fiber transmission and optical switching. It is expected that advanced photonic technology for, sensors and system networking (e.g. fly-by-light and smart structures and skins) will also support important improvements in platform performance