Apache helicopter

The US Army Program Executive Office for Command, Control and Communications-Tactical (PEO C3T) is planning to issue formal requests for proposals (RFP) for hardware solutions, in support of the development of two software-programmable radio systems.

Named small airborne networking radio (SANR) and small airborne link 16 terminal (SALT), the two-channel radios are being developed by PEO C3T’s Project Manager Airborne Maritime/Fixed Station (PM AMF) in an effort to connect rotary wing aircraft with ground-based units.

SALT has been designed to relay data, voice and video from Apache helicopter to ground through a wireless, secure network, whereas the SANR helps increase situational awareness of Apache, Chinook, Gray Eagle, Black Hawk, as well as Kiowa Warrior helicopters.

The request for information (RFI) for the two radios was released by PM AMF in August 2012, with meetings currently being held with respondents to discuss capability requirements.

AMF project manager navy captain Nigel Nurse said the office was working to determine the absolute requirements not provided by the industry.

"We’ll go back to industry and see, first if it can be provided, and if not, what’s the cost to provide it while working within the NDI construct."

"We’ll go back to industry and see, first if it can be provided, and if not, what’s the cost to provide it while working within the NDI construct," Nurse said.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Capable of meeting the National Security Agency’s type-one encryption certification, the radios will be integrated with new networking technologies, which can connect tactical edges through terrestrial and aerial tier communications that do not rely on satellite networks or fixed infrastructure.

Link 16 and soldier radio waveform (SRW) will be used by SALT, whereas SANR is expected to use SRW, single-channel ground and airborne radio system and a mid-tier waveform, which has not yet been determined.

The two RFPs are scheduled to be issued during the fourth quarter of 2013, in anticipation of starting low-rate initial production in the third quarter of 2014.


Image: The Small Airborne Link 16 Terminal radio is designed for Apache attack helicopter. Photo: courtesy of tech Sgt Matt Hecht.

Defence Technology