The US Navy (USN) has awarded a contract modification to General Dynamics (GD) Mission Systems (GDMS) for improvements to the high frequency (HF) capabilities of the USN's four channel AN/USC-61(C) Digital Modular Radio (DMR). Contract value has not been revealed.
DMR forms the critical communications hub for USN surface vessels and submarines, providing users with voice and data channels including UHF satellite networks, VHF and line of sight radio and Single Channel Grounds and Airborne Radio Systems (SINCGARS) among others. The software defined radio also carries the GD Advanced Infosec Machine (AIM) encryption chip, enabling the radio to carry classified information up to Top Secret at the same time as enabling multiple simultaneous levels of security. DMR has recently been enhanced with the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) waveform, allowing the system to connect to the MUOS satellite network and thus significantly enhance beyond line of sight voice and data communications.
“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,” Paul Parent, Vice President, GDMS said.. “DMR also provides a more effective alternative to satellite communications in locations where satellite connectivity or capacity is limited or unavailable.”
DMR forms the critical communications hub for USN surface vessels and submarines, providing users with voice and data channels including UHF satellite networks, VHF and line of sight radio and Single Channel Grounds and Airborne Radio Systems (SINCGARS) among others. The software defined radio also carries the GD Advanced Infosec Machine (AIM) encryption chip, enabling the radio to carry classified information up to Top Secret at the same time as enabling multiple simultaneous levels of security. DMR has recently been enhanced with the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) waveform, allowing the system to connect to the MUOS satellite network and thus significantly enhance beyond line of sight voice and data communications.
“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,” Paul Parent, Vice President, GDMS said.. “DMR also provides a more effective alternative to satellite communications in locations where satellite connectivity or capacity is limited or unavailable.”
 |
| Four Digital Modular Radios (on the right) aboard the USS GEORGE H.W: BUSH (CVN 77) supercarrier. (Photo: US Navy) |