The system aims to allow F/A-18E/F Super Hornet aircrews to engage in secure two-way voice and data communications with other satcom-enabled aircraft, ships, ground forces and command centers.

   The in-flight testing required Navy aircrew to conduct satellite-enabled secure voice and data transmissions with ground-based teams at China Lake and at the Naval Air Station in Patuxent River, Md.

   “Using the existing EA-18G architecture allowed Boeing and the Navy to demonstrate this capability less than 90 days after the initial request,” Boeing Vice President Mike Gibbons said in a statement. “This approach significantly reduced risk, cost and testing schedule, while demonstrating this important communications capability for the Navy.”