Expanding support for interoperability and message handling 

Updates to SitaWare Headquarters represent major leap forward in operational interoperability and workflow automation

Systematic is pleased to announce new features for its flagship SitaWare Headquarters command-and-control (C2) software. These enhancements include expanded support for the Multilateral Interoperability Programme version 4.4 (MIP4.4) and the latest NATO message catalog, APP-11(E)(1). The improvements mark a major milestone in enabling standardized information exchange and operational cohesion across coalition forces.

“This release represents a major leap forward in operational interoperability and workflow automation,” said Peter Dan Hansen, Domain Manager, Interoperability at Systematic. “With MIP4.4 and APP-11(E)(1) capabilities embedded in SitaWare Headquarters, our users can maintain a cohesive operational picture and reliably communicate across all mission phases."

Seamless multinational C2 interoperability with MIP4

MIP is a multinational initiative that standardizes how C2 systems exchange operational data across national and organizational boundaries. The latest updates to SitaWare Headquarters bridges MIP3.1 and MIP4.4 ensure interoperability with virtually any MIP-enabled coalition partner.

"MIP is one of the essential interoperability standards for both NATO members and nations associated with NATO. MIP is a vital tool that ensures nations can communicate and share information, especially for the exchange of complex recognized pictures, plans and orders.,” added Hansen.

Key MIP4.4 enhancements:

• Event (incident) symbol support: SitaWare transmits all common warfare symbology, including detailed incident types such as IED attacks, CBRN events, and hostile actions. Symbols not natively supported in MIL-STD-2525C are represented as reference points to maintain clarity in the Common Operational Picture (COP).
• ORBAT exchange: Users can now import/export Friendly and Non-Friendly Orders of Battle (ORBATs) offline via MIP4.4 file format or share ORBATs live through the MIP4.4 Gateway using request/subscribe mechanisms.
• Offline file exchange support: SitaWare supports offline exchange of overlays and operational data via packaged ZIP files containing the necessary MIP4 gateway and data layers. The feature allows coalition partners without fully developed information exchange services to exchange MIP4.4 data via alternate communication methods. 
• Introduction of backwards compatibility: MIP4 baselines after MIP4.4 will be backwards compatible to MIP4.4.

All new MIP features meet the Federated Mission Networking (FMN) Spiral 4 interoperability requirements, underscoring SitaWare Headquarters' readiness to support NATO FMN objectives.

Automated message handling

The latest SitaWare Headquarters release includes a new APP-11/MTF (Message Text Format) Gateway. This gateway automates the routing of formatted messages, supports rule-based handling, and strengthens mission-critical workflows. It can be configured to automatically visualize message content on the map and ensures that messages sent via chat are stored in folders for journalization.

When combined with the IRIS Message Profiler (IMP), this capability is extended even further, IMP enables automatic pickup of emails containing MTF content. These messages are then seamlessly processed and mapped to the operational picture using the MTF Gateway, ensuring a unified and automated workflow across communication channels.

“The new MTF gateway for SitaWare Headquarters is designed to streamline and automate the handling of formatted messages within various workflows,” said Frederikke Holm Jensen, Business Product Manager at Systematic. “The gateway connects layers, chatrooms and folders so you can set up different rules for how you want the information handled.”

The MTF gateway rule-based handling feature allows users to move chat messages to folders or import received messages directly to the operation map. The feature ensures seamless integration and enhances situational awareness.

In addition, IRIS Forms in SitaWare Headquarters now supports the latest version of NATO’s message catalogue. Newly developed IRIS Configuration Packages (ICPs) contain custom message templates including support for Maritime Custom Views and the NATO APP-11(E) schemas.

For more information, please contact Josh Miller, Communications Manager, at josh.miller@systematic.com.