General Dynamics demonstrates MUOS-based communications on JTRS HMS Radio for portable, secure, tactical satellite communications

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., 20 Feb. 2012. Engineers at General Dynamics C4 Systems have completed a demonstration of secure voice and data communications using its Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite-communications waveform. A Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) Handheld, Manpack, Small Form Fit (HMS) two-channel networking radio (AN/PRC-155) running MUOS waveform software transmitted encrypted voice through a MUOS-satellite simulator to MUOS ground station equipment to be deployed in Sicily.

The MUOS military satellite communications system is designed to enable secure, mobile networked communications worldwide, in even the most-austere environments. The MUOS waveform is scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2012. The MUOS capability will be available on the AN/PRC-155 manpack radio, the first MUOS terminal to become available to soldiers, by the end of this year.

"When fully deployed, the MUOS system will greatly increase much-needed tactical satellite capacity, in terms of both communications bandwidth and the numbers of users," says Brigadier General Michael Williamson, Joint Program Executive Officer, Joint Tactical Radio System.

"This demonstration proved that the JTRS HMS PRC-155 two-channel radio is ready to provide the portable link necessary to put the power of MUOS into warfighters' hands," explains Chris Brady, vice president of Assured Communications for General Dynamics C4 Systems. "General Dynamics developed the MUOS waveform using the PRC-155 manpack radio and it will be the first MUOS communications terminal used by soldiers. With two channels in one radio, a soldier can use one channel for line-of-sight SINCGARS and SRW waveforms, and bridge to the second channel using the MUOS satellite system for unprecedented, dedicated global communications reach."

General Dynamics C4 Systems is prime contractor of the JTRS HMS radio program, including the two-channel PRC-155 networking radio, the PRC-154 Rifleman Radio, and other small form fit networking radios.

General Dynamics and Thales Communications Inc. will manufacture the PRC-154 Rifleman Radio. The PRC-155 will be manufactured by General Dynamics and Rockwell Collins. More information about General Dynamics' radio products is available at www.gdradios.com.