Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Where can I obtain the latest version of this FAQ?

The latest version of this FAQ can be obtained at http://www.falconview.org. Compare the date at the end of this document and on the FalconView web site to determine if you have the latest version.

What is FalconView™?

FalconView is a Microsoft Windows® based mapping application that displays various types of maps and geographically referenced overlays. Many map types are supported, but the primary ones of interest to most users are aeronautical charts, satellite images, and elevation maps. FalconView also supports a large number of overlay types that can be displayed and printed over any map background. The current overlay set is oriented toward mission planning and is targeted toward aviators and aviation support personnel. Additionally, FalconView is used as an onboard moving-map display on several airborne platforms. FalconView is an integral part of the Portable Flight Planning Software (PFPS), and various FalconView components are also being adapted to the new Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS) environment.

What is PFPS?

PFPS is an integrated suite of PC-based mission planning tools using a common graphical user interface. PFPS is installable on any Windows® 2000- or XP-capable desktop or portable computer. It displays standard digital maps and produces user-customizable kneeboard cards, combat mission folders, and data transfers to compatible digital transfer devices. The PFPS software uses an implementation of the client-server data model to provide a shared view of the mission route to software components. The PFPS Route Server synchronizes the different PFPS components so that changes made to the route by one PFPS application are passed to all other components. This allows the operator to perform multiple operations on the same routes without reentering data.

The PFPS software suite includes FalconView, Combat Flight Planning Software (CFPS), Combat Weapon Delivery Software (CWDS), Combat Air Drop Planning Software (CAPS), and several other software packages built by different software contractors. More information on PFPS can be found on the Eglin AFB Mission Planning web site at http://www.eglin.af.mil/mission-planning.

What is AFMSS?

The Air Force Mission Support System (AFMSS) is a family of automated mission-planning tools. The main products comprising AFMSS are the Mission Planning System (MPS), the Portable Flight Planning Software (PFPS) core, and the next generation Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS). The MPS is a UNIX-based system while the PFPS and JMPS are PC/Windows®-based. These products encompass incremental software and hardware development in an open-system architecture with planned periodic software releases.

What is JMPS?

The Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS) has been mandated to be the next generation mission planner. The Air Force ESC/AC and the Navy PMA-233 have been directed to migrate AFMSS/MPS, PFPS, and TAMPS to JMPS as part of the Global Command and Control System (GCCS). The system is currently in development and has a goal to meet or exceed all requirements currently in the Navy’s TAMPS 6.X, and the Air Force’s PFPS 3.2 and AFMSS MPS C2.X.

What is SkyView?

SkyViewÔ is an add-on application for FalconView 3.1.2 or higher that provides a 3D perspective view of an area, including any overlays opened in FalconView. SkyView operates on most Windows® 2000 and XP platforms but performs best on systems with a joystick and 3D graphics acceleration. Acceptable performance is achieved through most low-end, 3D graphics cards built in 1999 or later. For a complete list of cards that work well with SkyView, see the SkyView readme.txt file and the online help that are installed with the software.

What is FalconLite (FalconView for NIMA)?

A special version of FalconView was developed for use by Government personnel who fall outside of the normal, mission-planning distribution chain. It is not suitable for use by aviators because it does not support route planning. This version is distributed directly from the NGA web site or from the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).

Who uses FalconView?

FalconView is primarily used by a large portion of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) aviation community as well as other federal agencies such as the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, the U.S. Customs Service, and the Federal Aviation Administration. Several Allied nations are also using a special version of FalconView that has been approved for export. FalconView has approximately 20,000 users.

Who developed FalconView?

FalconView was developed by researchers at the Georgia Tech Research Institute located on the Georgia Tech campus in Atlanta, Georgia. The majority of FalconView development was accomplished under multiple contracts with various DoD agencies. You can contact the FalconView development team directly by sending e-mail to falconview@gtri.gatech.edu .

What versions of FalconView are available?

The following versions are officially certified and fielded for mission-planning use:

· 4.0.2 (Army)

· 4.0.1 (USSOCOM)

· 3.3.1 (Air Force, Navy)

4.0.1 and 4.0.2 differ only in the display of a few tactical-graphic symbols.

4.1.0 has entered Government testing and is expected to reach the field in Fall 2007.

The Georgia Tech development team is currently working on version 4.2.0.

How do I obtain a release copy of FalconView and other related software?

FalconView has a unique distribution mechanism for each category of user that spans multiple MAJCOMs and other Government agencies. In order to obtain a copy of FalconView, you need to know which category qualifies you. Refer to the "Availability" section for your particular category.

Can I get a beta version of FalconView?

All beta copies must be approved by the appropriate program office. Distribution of Beta copies is done through the Eglin AFB Mission Planning web site. To get an account go to http://www.eglin.af.mil/mission-planning. You need to be registered at the "Developer" or "Tester" level. After obtaining approval, you will get a login and password to the secure site. There you can download the most recent beta copies.

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