This article is part of the TechXchange: Defense Electronics.
The U.S. Army Integrated Fires Mission Command (IFMC) is counting on an integrated antenna and mobile ad hoc network (MANET) radio design for reliable battlefield communications. Through a directed procurement to Northrop Grumman Corp., IFMC awarded a $35 million contract for the MANET Antenna Integrated Radio System (AIRS) from Silvus Technologies Inc..
The integrated system (see image above) is capable of 360-degree radio coverage for dependable battlefield communications even under hostile environmental conditions. It will be deployed in the U.S. Army’s Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS).
The AIRS is a modified version of the TRINITY Integrated Antenna and Radio System developed by Silvus Technologies. It links trilobe high-gain antenna arrays with StreamCaster MANET radios for extended radio coverage. With dual frequency bands, commanders have in-field flexibility to adapt to hostile conditions. The integrated radio system can establish a secure communications network even in dynamically changing operating environments.
Mike Kell, retired Signal Corps Colonel, and Director of Army Strategic Accounts for Silvis Technologies, said, “In partnership with Northop Grumman, Silvus is delivering on the U.S. Army’s Air and Missile Defense modernization strategy, to create an Integrated Battle Command System with low-latency, high-throughput C2 and communication capabilities.”
Concerning the radio system, he added, “Silvus’ innovative AIRS enables the fusing of multi-service sensors to multi-service weapons, demonstrating the Army’s contribution to Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) capabilities and enabling distributed operations.”
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