Harris Corp. has successfully created a high-frequency (HF) tactical radio network that linked U.S. military bases in four states and provided clearer communications and greater capabilities than traditional HF solutions.
The network allowed U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) personnel to send and receive voice and data messages simultaneously using beyond line-of-sight communications. Harris established the demonstration network using its Falcon III® RF-7800H wideband HF tactical radio to sites in Colorado, Kentucky, Florida and North Carolina.
The demonstration showcased the radio's emerging capabilities to integrate seamlessly into existing ground tactical networks, delivering voice and data services such as chat, email, position location/tracking, situational awareness and imagery distribution.
"SOCOM forces obtained communications that met or exceeded capabilities offered by legacy tactical satellite systems during the demonstration," said George Helm, president, Department of Defense business, Harris RF Communications. "Our next-generation HF radio provides an important alternative for connecting team members when it matters most."
The RF-7800H offers data rates that are up to 10 times greater than current HF manpacks. The new radio also offers spectrum sensing tools that automatically identify optimal communication channels with the least amount of interference.
Smaller and lighter than previous HF manpacks, the new RF-7800H is a software-defined radio that can be easily upgraded. It is fully compatible with the Harris Falcon II® HF product line and accessories, such as power amplifiers, antenna couplers and antennas. Harris has delivered more than 100,000 Falcon II high-frequency manpack radios worldwide.