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General Dynamics Adds HF Capability to Digital Modular Radio

By Caleb Henry | August 8, 2016
      DMR General Dynamics U.S. Navy

      U.S. Navy Digital Modular Radio (DMR) aboard the George H.W. Bush Navy vessel. Photo: General Dynamics

      [Via Satellite 08-08-2016] General Dynamics Mission Systems has received a contract modification from the U.S. Navy to improve High-Frequency (HF) communications for the Navy’s four-channel, AN/USC-61 Digital Modular Radios (DMR). The 3G High-frequency third generation Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) increases transmission rates from radio to radio by 24 percent and reduces static and other noises that hinder clear voice communications, according to the company. It also improves communications among U.S. and coalition forces and can supplement satellite communications (satcom) when satcom networks are overloaded or unavailable.

      The Navy uses General Dynamics’ software-defined DMR radios for vessels and submarines. They provide a range of military voice and data communication channels including Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) satellite networks, Very High Frequency (VHF) and Line of Sight radios, single-channel Ground and Airborne Radio Systems (SINCGARS) and other tactical radios. General Dynamics recently also added the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) waveform to DMR. The radios are equipped with General Dynamics Advanced Infosec Machine (AIM) encryption chip, certified by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) to carry classified information at the Type 1-Top Secret level and below. The radios also communicate simultaneously at multiple levels of security on each of the radio’s four channels.

      “This improved HF capability gives sailors and their commanders a communications advantage with improved communications reliability and higher data capacity, particularly when beyond line of sight networks are unavailable,” said Paul Parent, a vice president of General Dynamics Mission Systems. “DMR also provides a more effective alternative to satellite communications in locations where satellite connectivity or capacity is limited or unavailable.”