Beyond-line-of-sight system designed for coalition forces

The U.S. military and NATO coalition forces now have a new system to extend communications in mountainous or difficult terrains.

Announced at LandWarNet, the “Never-Out-of-Touch” system combines radio communication with broadband satellite networks in a joint partnership between Hughes Network Systems and Ultra Electronics - Tactical Communication Systems. The technology is geared toward fixed-site field operations, is lightweight and compatible with field equipment. An upgrade kit for deployed equipment also will be available.

U.S. and NATO forces currently use Ultra Electronics-TCS AN/GRC-245 radios around the globe. These radios will be integrated with Hughes’ commercial, off-the-shelf products and broadband satellite communications capabilities. Hughes HX system utilizes Ku-, Ka- or X-band antennas and routes.

The combined system employs a common man-machine interface on a standard laptop computer to control the system.

The technology will be demonstrated at the conference.