Sponsored by Spectra Group
https://tacs.at/Spectra
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04 Sep 19. Spectra Group appointed UK & NATO SOF distributor for Comtech System’s Troposcatter Technology. Spectra Group (UK) Ltd, world-leading provider of high-grade information security and communication capabilities, have recently been appointed as the UK distributor for US company Comtech Systems Inc with a 5-year contract. As part a contract with Navy Command supported by the UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), COMTECH have developed a manpack utilising Troposcatter communications technology, due to be available in 2020.
The advanced Troposcatter systems developed by Comtech provide high capacity, low-latency data links for over-the-horizon communications, without the need to rely on satellites or multiple line-of-sight repeaters. Recent trials of new, innovative, low-RF signature modems have successfully delivered bandwidths far exceeding those possible using satellite communications systems.
The current 500 Watt Mobile Transportable Transmission Systems (MTTS ) version from Comtech is capable of delivering in excess of 200Mb/s up to ranges of 200km dependent on conditions, whilst the manpack version is expected to deliver more than 5Mb/s using just 10 Watts for ranges in excess of 50km.
This collaboration sits well with Spectra’s ethos of innovation. Spectra’s own revolutionary Slingshot technology has been a true game-changer in the world of tactical communications. SlingShot is a unique system that enables UHF and VHF radios to use L-Band Satellite frequency, allowing users to instantly extend the range of their in-service tactical communications equipment to BLOS (Beyond Line of Sight). Conceived and designed to meet demanding Special Forces requirements, SlingShot offers a significant number of benefits for users requiring secure, reliable and robust communications on the move (COTM). Over 3500 SlingShot systems are in operation world-wide in the Manpack, Vehicle, Maritime and Aviation variants.
Simon Davies, CEO of Spectra Group said: “Spectra is delighted to have been appointed the UK distributor for Comtech. With increasing state-level global threats to communications and the potential for denial or degradation of Satellite services, we need to focus on innovation and diversification. The fresh development of robust, reliable and effective Troposcatter technologies opens up the opportunity to offer multiple long-range, secure communications solutions that don’t rely exclusively on satellite systems.”
The Spectra team will be exhibiting both Troposcatter and their game-changing SlingShot communications system on Stand N9-370.
09 Sep 19. Allen-Vanguard announce the release of its latest system at DSEI 2019 – EQUINOX™ NG. EQUINOX™ Next Generation (NG) is the flagship Electronic Countermeasure (ECM) system from Allen-Vanguard. The highly agile and flexible technical architecture has been developed around the leading global standards for Electronic Warfare (EW) hardware. This technical adaptability is coupled to a highly flexible and scalable physical format which allows the EQUINOX™ NG to be easily configured for a wide range of scenarios. From armoured vehicles in operational theatres to VIP convoys or vulnerable fixed site locations the system can be integrated with relative ease.
Accompanying this agile, hybrid system is Allen-Vanguard’s world renowned Threat Management Team and global Customer Service Support ensuring that such a critical capability continuous to deliver true effectiveness to its users anywhere in the world.
EQUINOX™ NG will bring EW & ECM convergence to reality and address the future requirements for the Single SIGINT Battlespace and protection of our forces.
EQUINOX™ NG is available today and is fully supported by Allen-Vanguard’s field service representatives worldwide.
09 Sep 19. Optical MLC system offers secure cable-free comms
for diverse range of military applications. The main focus of the Link Microtek stand at this year’s DSEI exhibition will be the
company’s Azdec optical MLC (mobile local communications) system, which offers a totally secure, non-RF, cable-free voice comms solution for a wide variety of defence-related applications.
Originally developed using infra-red technology to provide secure bridge communications on board naval vessels, the Azdec system has now been adopted in other military scenarios where radio-frequency transmissions might jeopardise security. From submarines to UAV control rooms and from satellite payload test facilities to forward command centres, operators can use the Azdec system to communicate securely with one another while roaming away from their base positions, unhindered by any trailing wires.
Utilising micro-LED arrays to provide optical transmissions at a wavelength determined by the requirements of the specific application, the Azdec system delivers crystal-clear, short-range voice communications and carries a Class 1 product designation as defined by the EN 60825-1 standard, which means it presents no ocular or other health hazard to users.
The optical digital encoding technology at the heart of the system is completely immune to radio, radar and electrical noise – even severe energy pulses – and has no effect on sensitive electronic equipment, flammable atmospheres or munitions. There are no RF emissions and the signals cannot be intercepted by any conventional method, so it is
impossible for anyone to jam the transmissions or eavesdrop on what is being said.
Capable of providing secure multi-channel communications for areas of up to 4000 square metres, an Azdec system typically comprises a compact base station, a number of fixed antennas, headsets, operators’ belt-mounted battery-pack/control units, and a central battery-charger unit.
Link Microtek’s stand will also highlight the company’s latest Azdec developments: a through-water system allowing short-range underwater optical communications, a long-range system for use on ships’ heli-decks, and a secure cable-free data link capable of transmitting
command signals, video, sound and other data to, say, unmanned ground vehicles involved in explosive ordnance disposal.
STAND S3-435
09 Sep 19. Optical MLC system offers secure cable-free comms for diverse range of military applications. The main focus of the Link Microtek stand at this year’s DSEI exhibition will be the company’s Azdec optical MLC (mobile local communications) system, which offers a totally secure, non-RF, cable-free voice comms solution for a wide variety of defence-related applications.
Originally developed using infra-red technology to provide secure bridge communications on board naval vessels, the Azdec system has now been adopted in other military scenarios where radio-frequency transmissions might jeopardise security. From submarines to UAV control rooms and from satellite payload test facilities to forward command centres, operators can use the Azdec system to communicate securely with one another while roaming away from their base positions, unhindered by any trailing wires.
Utilising micro-LED arrays to provide optical transmissions at a wavelength determined by the requirements of the specific application, the Azdec system delivers crystal-clear, short-range voice communications and carries a Class 1 product designation as defined by the EN 60825-1 standard, which means it presents no ocular or other health hazard to users.
The optical digital encoding technology at the heart of the system is completely immune to radio, radar and electrical noise – even severe energy pulses – and has no effect on sensitive electronic equipment, flammable atmospheres or munitions. There are no RF emissions and the signals cannot be intercepted by any conventional method, so it is impossible for anyone to jam the transmissions or eavesdrop on what is being said.
Capable of providing secure multi-channel communications for areas of up to 4000 square metres, an Azdec system typically comprises a compact base station, a number of fixed antennas, headsets, operators’ belt-mounted battery-pack/control units, and a central battery-charger unit.
Link Microtek’s stand will also highlight the company’s latest Azdec developments: a through-water system allowing short-range underwater optical communications, a long-range system for use on ships’ heli-decks, and a secure cable-free data link capable of transmitting command signals, video, sound and other data to, say, unmanned ground vehicles involved in explosive ordnance disposal.
STAND S3-435
09 Sep 19. HUBER+SUHNER to showcase innovative solutions to support the connected battlefield at DSEI 2019. HUBER+SUHNER, a leading manufacturer of radio frequency, fiber optic and low frequency cabling, components and bespoke integrated solutions, will highlight its extensive defense-oriented product portfolio as it showcases its latest solutions for C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) applications.
At DSEI 2019, HUBER+SUHNER will demonstrate both discreet and system-orientated solutions applicable to the connected battlefield. Additionally, HUBER+SUHNER representatives will introduce a new antenna portfolio for security-relevant applications recently acquired from Kathrein SE (Germany). With this acquisition, HUBER+SUHNER expands its own antenna portfolio, thus strengthening its market position in the area of Special Communications/Public Mobile Radio (PMR) in connection with the growing need for secure mobile communication.
HUBER+SUHNER is highlighting various connectivity solutions optimised for mission critical operations required on the evolved modern battlefield. These include low-loss and high-flex RF cables for signal processing connectivity, Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP)/lightning protection supporting shelter and mobile radio applications, Direct GPS-over-Fiber, optical transceivers and switching for remote antenna and ground station installations.
“Overall, the C4ISR markets continue to grow at a strong pace with land-based and airborne segments comprising the majority of that growth,” said BJ Lyman, Market Unit Manager for Aerospace and Defense at HUBER+SUHNER. “By providing vertically integrated connectivity solutions that encompass radio frequency, fiber optics and copper-based technologies, HUBER+SUHNER is able to provide engineers with the utmost in product options ranging from discreet to fully integrated solutions – a key differentiator from our competitors.”
Utilising a command/control shelter as the backdrop, attendees of DSEI 2019 are invited to experience the extensive range of discreet and system-orientated solutions applicable to support C4ISR applications and the connected battlefield.
For more information, please visit: https://www.hubersuhner.com/en.
HUBER+SUHNER at stand S8-135
09 Sep 19. OPEC CBRNe to demonstrate new suit system at DSEI. OPEC CBRNe’s latest CBRN garment, the Condor, incorporates aerosol protection and will be shown for the first time at DSEI in London on 10-13 September 2019.
“With an accelerating likelihood of chemical warfare agents being weaponised in an aerosol format, worldwide defence organisations are increasingly seeking aerosol protection as a broader component of CBRN capacity,” said OPEC CBRNe GM, Chris Jackson.
“The fabric functionality in the Condor suit is proven but we are keen to gain end-user feedback on the final suit system,” he said.
“Importantly, the Condor delivers aerosol protection without any compromise to CBRN protection and retains high air permeability which reduces thermal burden for the generalist or specialist end user.”
In addition to the Condor, visitors to the OPEC CBRNe stand at DSEI will also be able to view other suit fabric combinations from the current OPEC range.
OPEC CBRNe specialises in the design and manufacture of Level C CBRN garments for military, police and first responder personnel that exceed NATO standards while retaining lightness, breathability and comfort.
Underpinned by years of research and development, each garment is constructed using the latest materials, continuously evolving technologies and cutting-edge design and manufacturing techniques.
“Safety and comfort are the twin driving forces behind our garments. Each suit in our range is designed with the differing needs of the wearer in mind, which is why we have created a family of garment options to suit varying end user situations and threats,” he said.
The Condor joins the Kestrel, the Phoenix, the Falcon, the Roc, the Kite, the Osprey and the Garuda within OPEC CBRNE’s family of CBRN protective garments.
The OPEC CBRNe brand has already proven itself on the international stage, with its two-piece Kestrel protective garment nominated as the preferred CBRN ensemble by the Australian Government in 2018.
OPEC CBRNe will be exhibiting at Land Zone, Dismounted Soldier Display, N22 – Pod 5 at DSEI.
06 Sep 19. L3Harris merger promises greater communications offerings. Two months on from the merger between L3 and Harris, now L3Harris, things are going ‘better than expected’ and developments of the company’s communications offerings are already underway.
The merger saw the creation of four segments within the company including L3Harris Communications Systems which has incorporated most of Harris’ tactical communications and radio offerings as well as L3’s ISR, video datalinks and night vision business.
Speaking to Shephard, Dana Mehnert president of L3Harris’ Communications Systems, formally of Harris, segment said that the merger had strengthened the company’s position in the communications market both in the air and on the ground.
The merger has resulted in Harris going from a $7bn company to a $17bn company under the L3Harris merger.
The company is already looking at how to combine the two product portfolios to enhance its offerings for example Mehnert said they had already begun integrating the small SATCOM terminals, from the L3 portfolio, with the tactical radios, from Harris.
‘We have taken the control capability, the keypad display unit that we had with the tactical radios and integrated it with SATCOM terminals now so that the soldier can use the same man-machine-interface that they are very used to with the Harris radios but now use it to control the L3 SATCOM terminal,’ he explained in one example.
On plans for new products to come out of the merged companies Mehnert said that ‘absolutely there will be new products and capabilities that will come out of [the division] in the areas of soldier systems.’
Highlighting L3’s commitment to the Enhanced Night Vision Goggle Binocular (ENVG-B) programme in the US Mehnert said the company is now completing the qualification of the first 40 units in September 2019 with deliveries to the army to commence soon.
L3Harris will be integrating those with its tactical radios in use by the US Army as well as laser rangefinder.
Mehnert said that while integrating those capabilities might not be a new product per se they ‘certainly will be a new capability’.
The company is also looking at enhancing L3’s communications waveform, known as Chameleon, for ground-air interoperability in a denied environment.
On the company’s presence in Europe the UK will continue to be the company’s largest hub and L3Harris is soon to move to a new site in Farnborough in the south of England from its smaller facility in Basingstoke.
Before the merger Harris had just 300 staff located in the UK, this had increased significantly as it now incorporates L3’s 3,000 staff members also. (Source: Shephard)
09 Sep 19. Rohde & Schwarz at DSEI: Information superiority, situational awareness and spectrum dominance. Rohde & Schwarz demonstrates tactical and strategic intelligence and digital communications sovereignty, as a systems partner and integrator for planning, developing, manufacturing and implementing secure communications architectures and monitoring networks. The privately owned company showcases an innovative portfolio of interoperable, high-performance solutions for deployment on land, in the air and at sea. At this year’s DSEi, taking place in London, Great Britain from 10 to 13 September 2019, Rohde & Schwarz pushes information superiority, situational awareness and spectrum dominance to the next level, presenting its full technology portfolio on booth S1-350. Showcased are EW/SIGINT (electronic warfare/signals intelligence) systems, integrated communications on the high seas, on land and in the air, networked encryption devices and test and measurement solutions for radar and EW, alongside counter-UAS systems.
Rohde & Schwarz will showcase its operationally proven NAVICS integrated communications system for internal and SOVERON for external communications on all classes of ships. Relying on commercial IT technology to a large extent, the system is especially cost-effective, and its modern graphical user interface (GUI) makes it intuitive to operate. The system is fully IP based, allowing the integration of further communications services such as Voice-over-IP (VoIP), broadcast, alarm functions and shipborne telephone systems. Rohde & Schwarz will equip the Royal Navy’s Type 26 Global Combat Ship with an integrated communications system, built around the NAVICS, under a contract from BAE Systems, covering both internal and external communications.
As a leading supplier of EW/SIGINT solutions, Rohde & Schwarz is THE One-Stop Shop for reliable and field-proven EW, offering an exceptional portfolio and comprehensive functionality. In London, the company will showcase advanced EW systems for enhancing the situational awareness during operations in the field. The presented ELINT system features components of next generation ELINT intercept solutions that have been established on the market for years. The core component is a new 8-channel wideband ELINT concept, with 2GHz bandwidth, collecting and analyzing modern LPI signals and likewise legacy radar emissions. Exhibits also include a cellular network analysis system for supporting reconnaissance missions with focus on non-military communications. Moreover, Rohde & Schwarz will present a counter-UAS solution that provides reliable drone detection and countering capabilities even under challenging signal scenarios. The modular and scalable systems can be deployed on a variety of platforms and are in operation in the field several dozen times.
With its expertise in test and measurement, Rohde & Schwarz is also a leading provider of dedicated test solutions that help developers and engineers address the latest challenges in advanced radar and EW system design. At DSEI, the company will showcase its state of the art solutions for testing multifunctional radar systems, radar warning receivers and deceptive jammers/DRFM.
Addressing land-based platform requirements, SOVERON provides government customers with a secure, high-performance network architecture based on state-of-the-art hardware and software. SOVERON creates technological independence, scalable and modular according to customer requirements thus enabling digital sovereignty. As key components of the SOVERON architecture, Rohde & Schwarz presents its innovative SOVERON software defined radios (SDR) for tactical and airborne communications scenarios. For these SDRs, the company has designed high data rate, anti-jam waveforms to match diverse mission requirements. For every communications scenario, users can select the waveform and encryption that best suit their requirements in terms of range, data rate and jam resistance.
Furthermore, Rohde & Schwarz displays a broad range of hardware and software products to effectively protect networks and critical infrastructures against attacks. These encryption solutions protect authorities, organizations and enterprises against espionage and data manipulation. The Rohde & Schwarz network encryption devices are approved by the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) and can be used flexibly with many stationary and mobile applications.
03 Sep 19. Link Microtek unveils extended-range version of secure optical mobile local communications system. Link Microtek has unveiled a new version of its Azdec optical MLC (mobile local communications) system featuring a range of up to 30 metres – three times greater than the capability of its established technology. This development opens up new defence-related applications for the Azdec system, which provides totally secure, non-RF, cable-free communications.
Particularly suitable for use in large hangars or open spaces where radio-frequency transmissions might jeopardise security, the new Azdec 30 system allows operators to communicate with one another while roaming freely, unhindered by any trailing wires. The extended range of the system means that it could also be used in through-water communications scenarios or for transmitting, say, video from and data to unmanned ground vehicles involved in explosive ordnance disposal.
Originally developed using infra-red technology to provide secure bridge communications on board naval vessels, the Azdec system delivers crystal-clear voice communications using micro-LED arrays transmitting at a wavelength determined by the requirements of the specific application. The system carries a Class 1 product designation as defined by the EN 60825-1 standard, which means it presents no ocular or other health hazard to users.
The optical digital encoding technology at the heart of the system is completely immune to radio, radar and electrical noise – even severe energy pulses – and has no effect on sensitive electronic equipment, flammable atmospheres or munitions. There are no RF emissions and the signals cannot be intercepted by any conventional method, so it is impossible for anyone to jam the transmissions or eavesdrop on what is being said.
The Azdec 30 system has been optimised for extended-range operation by means of a redesigned communication protocol and reshaped transmission/reception patterns. A typical installation comprises a compact base station, a number of fixed antennas, a choice of headset styles, operators’ belt-mounted battery-pack/control units, and a central battery-charger unit.
06 Sep 19. Inzpire Limited Develop Beyond Line of Sight Communications Capability for GECO Mission Support System. Inzpire Limited has further enhanced the functionality of its GECO Mission Support System by designing and delivering a beyond line of sight communications system. The capability, which was developed in response to an urgent operational requirement (UOR), uses satellite communication enabling users to communicate over great distances from virtually anywhere in the world using the company’s tablet-based electronic flight bag.
A global system for mobile communications (4G) option is available for use during training where a suitable network exists, enhancing connectivity and reducing cost.
Designed by Inzpire’s ex-military aviators and highly-experienced engineers, the secure messaging function of the beyond line of sight capability allows messaging groups to be created and customised in real time on the military-grade tablet. Default messages are stored on the system to speed up the sending of routine messages, whilst emergency messages are also stored and can generate instant alerts and responses. A read receipt function has also been developed to enhance awareness, ensuring the sender can keep track of the status of their messages and whether they have been received and read.
To enhance awareness during missions, the new beyond line of sight capability also provides the operator with live location updates of other users, both on the ground and in the air. With the functionality being developed by ex-military aircrew who understand the sensitive nature of missions, the position sharing feature can also be turned on or off.
Jonny Smith, Inzpire’s Head of Mission Systems, said: “The addition of the beyond line of sight capability is a game changer for the GECO system and its users. Fully integrated with the vast array of other GECO system features, the beyond line of sight communications capability allows vital safety and situational awareness updates to be exchanged over great range between aircraft and their operating base. Furthermore, the GECO System is a totally ‘carry-on’ solution, requiring no aircraft modification, offering hugely reduced cost and timescale. The capability makes missions safer, more effective and offers outstanding value for money.”
10 Sep 19. Collins Aerospace tackles military communication challenges with new wideband HF communication system.
- Features 4G Automatic Link Establishment technology for industry-leading reliability and speed
- Brings improved data transfer rates, real-time chat and digital voice capability
- Enables beyond line of sight communications in satellite denied and challenged environments
Collins Aerospace Systems, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX), has launched a new wideband High Frequency (HF) communications system that delivers reliable, high-speed data and clear digital voice beyond line of sight communications without needing satellites. Called Universal Radio Group (URG)-IV, the new portable ground station is being showcased for the first time at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) trade show in London on Sept. 10-13.
URG-IV features the latest 4G Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) technology, which automatically determines the optimal bandwidth for transmission and links much faster than legacy HF equipment. This makes it a more reliable and easier to use HF communications platform. Beyond clear voice communications, the URG-IV’s wideband HF capabilities also enable users to transmit images and use real-time chat functionality.
“The URG-IV provides an ideal alternative for communications in areas where warfighters are facing SATCOM denied and jammed environments,” said Troy Brunk, vice president and general manager, Communication, Navigation and Guidance Solutions for Collins Aerospace. “Modernized HF is an integral component of a communication system’s PACE (Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency) plan and helps maintain situational awareness on the battlefield.”
The URG-IV HF communications system is made up of the new RT-2200A wideband HF radio, the new PA-2010 power amplifier and ancillaries housed together in a moveable package. Combining the radio, power supplies and amplifiers provides beneficial redundancy and protection against failures, adding to the reliability of wideband HF communications. The URG-IV is a modernized version of the company’s URG-III HF communications system, which has provided customers reliable and quality communications for decades.
09 Sep 19. Barrett Communications will be previewing their latest range of HF transceivers for the digital battlefield. The new PRC-4090 Tactical HF SDR systems will be unveiled on Tuesday 10th September at DSEI on stand N6-450.
The Barrett PRC-4090 is the tactical HF SDR, which is the lightest military grade HF transceiver on the market at only 2.95kg; with multiple battery options offering gross operational weight from 3.95kg to 5.0kg. The PRC-4090 is a multi-configured system offering manpack, mobile and base station configurations with selectable power outputs of 10, 30, 125 and 150 Watts.
Barrett Communications CEO, Mr Andrew Burt said “We are very excited to be showing this product to the market at DSEI. The PRC-4090 is the most advanced fully software-defined transceiver and remains true to the Barrett ethos of designing transceivers that provide intuitive ease of use. The software designed architecture enables a multi-language touch screen software interface with English, French, Spanish, Arabic and Russian as standard. We believe it offers the market an exciting new HF range and an innovative operator experience.”
The unique design of the control handset incorporates a toughened 24-bit colour LCD touchscreen display and button control, customisable for use in different ambient light conditions. The transceiver can also be operated with the standard H250 handsets and tactical headsets.
The extended operation time with low RX current consumption is also an improved feature of the PRC-4090 transceiver, with current consumption of 250MA the PRC-4090 transceiver operates in RX (only) for up to 64 hours and RX/TX at 90/10 duty cycle for up to 21 hours.
Stand N6-450
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Spectra Group Plc
Spectra has a proven record of accomplishment – with over 15 years of experience in delivering secure communications and cybersecurity solutions for governments around the globe; elite militaries; and private enterprises of all sizes.
As a dynamic, agile, security accredited organisation, Spectra can leverage this experience to deliver Cyber Advisory and secure Hosted and Managed Solutions on time, to spec and on budget, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices.
Spectra’s SlingShot® is a unique low SWaP system that enables in-service U/VHF tactical radios to utilise Inmarsat’s commercial satellite network for BLOS COTM. Including omnidirectional antenna for the man, vehicle, maritime and aviation platforms, the tactical net can broadcast over 1000s miles between forward units and a rear HQ, no matter how or where the deployment. Unlike many BLOS options, SlingShot maintains full COTM (Communications On The Move) capability and low size and weight
On 23 November 2017, Spectra Group (UK) Ltd announced that it had recently been listed as a Top 100 Government SME Supplier for 2015-2016 by the UK Crown Commercial Services
Spectra’s CEO, Simon Davies, was awarded 2017 BATTLESPACE Businessman of the Year by BATTLESPACE magazine and is a finalist in the inaugural British Ex-Forces In Business Awards in the Innovator Of The Year category.
Founded in 2002, the Company is based in Hereford, UK and holds ISO 9001:2015, ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation.
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