The European tactical communications market is on a march, with Frost & Sullivan estimating that the sector will be worth some $1.58 billion by 2018, up from $1.06 billion in 2008, and showing steady growth of around 4.1% per annum. The projected growth comes as European ministries of defence realise the potential of networked communications as an effective force multiplier, and upgrade their tactical communication (TACCOM) capabilities.
Products such as high band networking radio, software defined personal role radio and tactical network (TacNet) solutions are steadily transforming the TACCOM landscape. In a TacNet architecture in the theatre of operation, all radio sets – including vehicular and airborne – as well as satellite communications (SATCOM) terminals are used as nodes. The network also integrates existing command and control (C2)/battle management systems (BMS) and air defence communication systems into a single IP environment enabling seamless transmission of voice, data and video content from decision centres to the last tactical mile.
Key to this transformation will be the availability of IP and Ethernet hardware which is tested to MIL standards and battle proven in conflict zones. Where products such as Ethernet switches can meet these requirements, and combine the advantages of COTS availability and pricing with rugged design that assures absolute reliability in even the most demanding of environmental conditions, then they will provide the military with an attractive option in the drive for standardised communications at Gigabit speeds and beyond.
The best commercial Ethernet switches will pass MIL-standard shock and vibration testing, demonstrating their suitability for both airborne and ground-based deployment, and offer extended temperature operation. They will offer EMI/RFI interference rejection and protection as standard, and will provide conformal coating for protection against high humidity, corrosive chemicals and salt spray. Further, rugged and robust products will be available in innovative sealed versions that don’t need internal cooling fans, and will offer dependable operation with MTBF of over 125,000 hours at extended temperatures.
This seems a big ask of COTS technologies, and yet these products are out there right now, combining industrial affordability with a proven reputation in military applications.