Harris Corporation receives $10m order for RF-310M radios

Harris Corporation, an international communications and information technology company, has received a $10 million order to provide RF-310M-HH multiband handheld software-defined radios to a central Asian nation in support of interoperable secure communications with coalition partners.

The RF-310M is the first tactical radio certified by the National Security Agency as compatible with new Suite B encryption algorithms, which protect voice and data transmissions up to US SECRET level of classification. The RF-310M is considered a non-cryptographically controlled item (non-CCI), utilizing Type-1 Suite B encryption algorithms to provide secure classified SECRET and below voice and data transmissions. This allows for secure interoperable communications at the SECRET level and below between US forces and their coalition partners. The RF-310M radio is interoperable with tactical radios such as the Falcon III AN/PRC152 handheld and Falcon III AN/PRC-117G manpack that use both Suite A and Suite B encryption.

"The RF-310M-HH is a significant solution to the challenges of military coalition communications," said Andy Start, president, international business unit, Harris RF Communications. "As coalitions work together to establish safety and security, one of the biggest obstacles is common interoperable secure communications. The RF-310M-HH addresses that need. Coalition forces benefit from improved coordination, easier mission planning, and reduced instances of friendly fire."

The RF-310M-HH radio uses the Sierra IIB programmable encryption module, certified by the NSA in June 2009. In addition to allowing secure interoperation with other tactical radios, the RF-310M-HH is also capable of hosting the APCO P25 waveform. This waveform provides interoperability with radios used by police and other emergency response organizations, allowing the RF-310M-HH to span the gap between tactical and public safety networks. With its programmable encryption technology, Software Communications Architecture (SCA) and coverage of the entire 30-512 MHz frequency range, the RF-310M-HH addresses interoperability challenges presented in coalition and inter-agency operations. The RF-310M also offers optional 762 to 870 MHz coverage.

Harris RF Communications is the leading global supplier of secure radio communications and embedded high-grade encryption solutions for military, government and commercial organizations. The company's Falcon family of software-defined tactical radio systems encompasses manpack, handheld and vehicular applications. Falcon III is the next generation of radios supporting the US military's Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) requirements, as well as network-centric operations worldwide. Harris RF Communications is also a leading supplier of assured communications systems and equipment for public safety, utility and transportation markets -- with products ranging from the most advanced IP voice and data networks to portable and mobile single- and multiband radios.

Source: Harris Corporation