Exelis releases 3 interfaces that ease real-time hyperlocal weather data access using the Helios platform

Exelis (NYSE: XLS) has released three new application program interfaces (API) for weather forecasters, product managers and enterprise logistics operations managers. Delivered directly into their applications and systems, the APIs make it easy and convenient to access information products from the Helios™ platform.

Helios generates unique information products, not available from any other company, by processing millions of images from an aggregated and growing set of thousands of public and private traffic and web cameras in major U.S. markets. Exelis uses proprietary methods and algorithms that can uniquely detect and validate weather conditions, as well as provide visual reference to the current weather. Helios detection and surveillance capabilities reflect the company’s focus and expertise in the intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and analytics strategic growth area.

Helios provides information products for companies and organizations that need accurate and timely weather conditions for validation, incorporation into commercial offerings, or as actionable information for real-time decision-making within their enterprises.

Helios4Forecast™, Helios4Apps™ and Helios4Enterprise™ allow developers, programmers and integrators direct interface with the Helios Digital Platform to access multiple information products to develop their own weather applications or add value to their existing products. Helios4Forecast provides detected conditions including rain, wet roads, and visibility for improved accuracy for near-term, local forecasts. Helios4Apps offers product managers, who work for companies that develop weather apps, original and relevant content to differentiate their applications. Helios4Enterprise helps logistics managers by providing critical weather updates that can help improve operational efficiency, delivery time and safety.

Exelis offers custom APIs that enable companies like TrafficLand and AccuWeather, that have very specific requirements and distribution channel needs, to use Helios in a variety of ways. These include complementing internal business processes, generating new content, and enhancing web and mobile phone applications, and forecasting tools.

“Helios is uniquely positioned to offer information products generated from proprietary methods and analytics that help validate, monitor and detect weather conditions in a way and in places that have never been available before,” said Brian Bell, Exelis Helios product manager. “Our APIs make it easy and convenient to access this treasure trove of information, allowing our customers to look at solving problems caused by weather in a very different way.”

About Exelis

Exelis is a diversified, global aerospace, defense and information solutions company that leverages a 50-year legacy of deep customer knowledge and technical expertise to deliver affordable, mission-critical solutions for global customers. We are a leader in positioning and navigation, sensors, air traffic management solutions, image processing and distribution, communications and information systems, and focused on strategic growth in the areas of critical networks, ISR and analytics, electronic warfare and composite aerostructures. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, Exelis employs approximately 10,000 people and generated 2013 sales of $4.8 billion. For more information, visit our website at www.exelisinc.com or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.