Cross-platform military radio demo

Bittium, a Finnish company providing tactical communications systems, and Leonardo-Finmeccanica, an international high-tech security company, have demonstrated how the land forces of different European countries can communicate with each other in joint operations, linking up via a common waveform regardless of the radio platforms they use.

The two firms showed how Europe’s ESSOR (European Secure SOftware defined Radio) program has made it possible for each company’s separate systems to interact seamlessly.

The demonstration took place at the Eurosatory Defence and Security International Exhibition in Paris.

Both companies’ systems make use of the European High Data Rate Waveform (HDRWF), which was developed under the ESSOR to enable improved cooperation in joint, intercountry operations.

In the demonstration, Leonardo’s Swave SDR (software-defined radio) tactical radio and Bittium’s Tactical Wireless IP Network (TAC WIN) system formed a network, with a video stream highlighting the capabilities of the ESSOR HDRWF.

Bittium’s TAC WIN system is currently widely used by the Finnish Defence Forces. It enables fast, automated forming of wireless broadband IP network in the field, compatible with existing wireline and wireless infrastructures. Leonardo’s Swave SDR is a vehicular, 4-channel radio able to host a range of waveforms from 4 MHz to 2 GHz.

Both Bittium and Leonardo have been part of the ESSOR program since it started in 2009. The aim of the program is to develop the European SDR technology in order to improve the capabilities for cooperation in coalition operations.

The program was established under the umbrella of the European Defence Agency, sponsored by the governments of Finland, France, Italy, Poland, Spain and Sweden.

Other companies involved in the first phase of the ESSOR — which was successfully completed in 2015 — were Indra from Spain, Radmor from Poland, Saab from Sweden and Thales from France.

In addition to the European High Data Rate Waveform, the first phase of the program produced the definition for the European SDR architecture.

The parties are currently negotiating the second phase of the program, which will largely focus on achieving operational performance for the ESSOR system.

Image courtesy MKFI.