RTOSs for Air Refueling Aircraft System : Enabling multiple RTOSs to share ethernet on a single processor
The Challenge
Enable multiple Real-Time Operating Systems to securely share Ethernet interfaces while meeting DO-178C safety standards
Technical Complexity
- Distribute multicast and broadcast packets without external routing
- Protect memory buffers between isolated operating systems
- Program MMU and PAMU for proper functionality
Our Approach
Started with 2 engineers for feasibility validation. Designed, implemented, and tested the solution. Scaled to 10+ engineers. Provided technical continuity when the original architect departed.
The Outcome
- Successfully delivered DO-178C certified driver solution
- Became the customer’s technical authority on Ethernet communications
- Enabled remote vision capability critical to aircraft mission
Speaker Notes:
This case study shows Quest Defense solving a specific, difficult technical problem that required both expertise and partnership. Emphasize the progression. Started with 2 engineers to prove feasibility, became trusted technical leads, scaled to 10+, and provided continuity when the architect left. That’s the partnership model in action.
The technical details around MMU, PAMU, and multicast distribution establish credibility with technical audiences. The point is to show you can solve hard problems at this level of depth.
The outcome focuses on business value. The customer got their remote vision capability and a trusted technical partner. We didn’t just deliver code. We became their experts in this domain.
If your audience is program-focused, emphasize the scaling and continuity. If technical, spend more time on the architecture challenge.
Chris Hardgrave joined Quest Defense in April 2024 as Vice President for Strategic Accounts. He is responsible for sales, growth, and development of strategic relationships for new business development efforts in the Aerospace and Defense sector. Chris works in the Washington, D.C. office.
As Chief Engineer for Quest Defense, Jon is responsible for ensuring that sound engineering processes are maintained and followed by our employees working in a diverse set of services and disciplines across all verticals. In this role he also leads Quest Defense’s efforts to develop new methods and technologies to help grow the business through innovation, as well as building and promoting the technical reputation of the company in the public sphere.
Jeff Fischer serves as a board member for Quest Defense Systems and Solutions business. Additionally Jeff is the Operations Leader for the Quest Global Aerospace and Defense Industry.
Steve Gerber is President and CEO of QuEST Defense Systems and Solutions business and is responsible for providing the leadership and growth of this venture.
Joe supports Special Missions across Quest Global to include key client contract negotiations, strategic business solutions, M&A, and culture endeavors.
Frank Kendall is an independent consultant to defense industry firms and non profit research organizations. He is a Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress, a Senior Advisor to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and a member of th e Council on Foreign Relations. Among other industry positions, he is a member of the board of directors of Leidos Corporation and of Leonardo Electronics USA Inc. From 2012 to 2017, Mr. Kendall served as the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, T echnology and Logistics (AT& after serving as the Principal Deputy Under Secretary from 2010 2012. Mr. Kendall has over 45 years of experience in engineering, management, defense acquisition, and national security affairs in private industry, governmen t, and the military.
John Thackrah is the founding Principal of Sextant Solutions LLC, an aerospace, maritime and government acquisition consultant.
Page Hoeper is a private consultant, corporate director, and venture capitalist. Since leaving government service, Mr. Hoeper has focused on corporate governance and board service. He chairs the boards of OnPoint Technologies, Inc., 501c(3) venture capital fund established by Congress to focus on emerging commercial technologies of interest to the U.S. Army, and Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, a provider of engineering services to the U.S. defense industry.
As the President of Quest Global, Bob is responsible for establishing and maintaining senior customer relationships, catalysing new business development, and overseeing innovative and transformational deals. In this role, he also assists in building relationships with strategic acquisitions for the company.