Automated Fire Control System TOPAZ is designed to support the artillery regiment (typically consisting of three batteries and reconnaissance platoons) in fire mission management. The system was primarily dedicated for non-autonomous gun regiments (2S1 - 122 mm, 152mm, BM-21 and non-modernized RM-70). The fire control system can be adapted to specific guns requirements and characteristics and be part of gun modernization programme. TOPAZ system can be used in various configurations, but the core communication structure may remain unchanged.
ZZKO TOPAZ is mainly the software controlled system where automatic data exchange is implemented without operator's concern. All essential artillery procedures in the system can be carried out with the use of computers only, without any spoken order given.
The main advantage of the system highly appreciated by the users is error-free data transfer certainty, transmission speed and fast command evaluation.
The basic communication media are cable connection (FONET standard) and the radio network. The optimization of data transfer speed over the radio network was the subject of the special concern for the system designers. The best possible results were achieved due to minimizing the number of intermediate data-transfer points and optimizing the number of network participants.
The TOPAZ network does not impose any limitations to the number of subscribers. The network arrangement resembles that of command structure. The data distribution centres are located in the command posts. In the result, the command and the related data flow follows the division hierarchical organization.
ZZKO TOPAZ is the complex communication and the information technology system, integrating electronic equipment installed on-board the command vehicles. Most of integration is done by FONET, making use of its data transmission capabilities.
The communication facility provides extension to other command and control systems employed at superior command levels. These extended connections need to have the dedicated radio set assigned. Depending on the level of integration with external command systems the commands can be converted in automated mode or be processed by personnel on the dedicated computerized post.
To meet this requirement, most command vehicles are fitted with twin computer workplaces, one of which is dedicated to control TOPAZ fire missions and the other for communication management and inter-system operation. There may be extra workplaces dedicated to control specialized equipment installed on-board the vehicle or externally.
Data flow between the posts is managed by internal addressing protocol implemented in the control software. This refers to both radio and cable communication.
Present TOPAZ structure can be extended to adopt new regimental units into consistent information database. This can cover needs of supporting platoons - medical, logistics, repairs. Every added unit will gain simultaneous access to voice and data communication.
