Harris and BAE Systems have successfully demonstrated the first Highband Networking Radio (HNR) system featuring directive beam technology — an approach that extends range, improves throughput, and enhances spectrum efficiency. The Harris-BAE Systems team demonstrated a self-forming, self-healing, mobile network utilizing the HNR co-developed by the two companies.
The demonstration was conducted January 25 and 26 in a 500-square-kilometer area of Melbourne, Florida. Attendees included representatives from all branches of the U.S. armed forces and from companies involved in large-system integration.
"This demo has proven that true, ad-hoc mobile networking is now available," said Sheldon Fox, vice president and general manager of Department of Defense Programs, Harris Government Communications Systems Division. "HNR provides the unique capability of a high throughput, mesh network that can be used in both mobile and static operations. This system is an excellent example of our company's commitment to developing leading-edge technologies with broad applications for military network-centric military communications."
"This successful demonstration underscores our joint commitment to provide innovative solutions in wideband networked mobile communications to the warfighter," said Jeff Markel, president of Network Enabled Solutions for BAE Systems.
The demonstration highlighted the full range of the HNR system's capabilities, including voice-over-IP, video teleconferencing, high-definition video and e-mail transmission at speeds of more than 30 megabits per second. Using the Army's Joint Network Nodes (JNNs) to simulate multiple battalion-level tactical operations centers linked back to a simulated command center, the HNR demonstrated both static and mobile backbone communications links for Army units dispersed throughout a 500-square-kilometer urban environment. In addition, mobile satellite communications, secure wireless local area network (LAN) communications and tactical voice communications were seamlessly integrated into the network and linked to a General Dynamics facility in Taunton, Massachusetts, via a Ku-band satellite.
The HNR is the first product to provide fully mobile, high-bandwidth, long-range, line-of-site connectivity between users of widely dispersed LANs. The versatile system is configurable enough for small combat unit applications as well as for Army division/brigade/battalion network backbone applications. It operates with equal effectiveness in fixed, at-the-halt or on-the-move applications. Designed for ease and speed-of-use, the HNR requires only power-up to establish a mobile, ad-hoc networking mesh, thereby helping to reduce manpower and simplify operations.
