The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and Lockheed Martin recently reached a major milestone in the integration and delivery of geospatial data, installing the 4,000th user workstation under the Integrated Exploitation Capability (IEC) program and NGA's Federated Partner contracts.

IEC workstations are specialized computer suites that serve as the primary portal to the nation's imagery and geospatial capabilities for defense, intelligence, and civil agency users worldwide.

"IEC workstations put the power of geospatial-intelligence in the hands of front-line users," said Jim Kohlhaas, Lockheed Martin Vice President, Spatial Solutions. "With one workstation, you have direct, secure access to 280 integrated applications for mapping, imagery and analysis.

IEC systems support operations as varied as mission planning, targeting, disaster response and navigation. Workstations are frequently installed at fixed sites, but can also be rapidly deployed to support emergency operations.

"This is a great example of how NGA and its mission partners are delivering innovative geospatial capabilities across defense, intelligence and homeland security operations."

The IEC program was initiated 10 years ago in an effort to upgrade from hard-copy, stove-piped imagery and mapping systems to an integrated, all-digital suite of applications. IEC workstations not only speed the online delivery of geospatial-intelligence to users worldwide, they also allow those users to conduct advanced analysis and data fusion from their location.

IEC gives users access to data from a variety of sensors, including satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles, and airborne radar. Combatant Commands, intelligence agencies, and emergency response organizations rely on IEC for day-to-day operations at 115 different sites worldwide.

In 2006, IEC was recognized by the Department of Defense and the National Defense Industrial Association as one of the "Top Five" DoD programs for excellence in integration, performance and program management. Lockheed Martin is the prime contractor for IEC, responsible for system design, integration and sustainment.