Hughes Network Systems LLC (Hughes) and Ultra Electronics Tactical Communication Systems (Ultra TCS), the premier global supplier of High Capacity Line-of-Sight (HCLOS) radio communication systems, are demonstrating at LandWarNet 2009 their integrated "Never-Out-of-Touch" tactical communications solution. The solution combines the high reliability Ultra TCS HCLOS radio communication system with Hughes commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) products and beyond-line-of-sight SATCOM capabilities.

The U.S. military and NATO Coalition forces currently use the Ultra TCS AN/GRC-245 (HCLOS) radio in combat theatres around the world. Combined with the Hughes HX System, utilizing Ku-, Ka- or X-band antennas and routers, the integrated HCLOS and SATCOM radio provides a high reliability solution to seamlessly extend communications in mountainous or difficult terrains.

"We are pleased to partner with Hughes in demonstrating to U.S. and Coalition forces a commercially-proven product combined with our combat-proven HCLOS radio to provide range extension capability in a small transit case," states Iwan Jemczyk, president of Ultra TCS.

The flexibility of this integrated system to provide both satellite connectivity and range extension of HCLOS radios results in an innovative "Never-Out-of-Touch" communications solution. Optimized for on-the-move (OTM) communications, it makes efficient use of SATCOM bandwidth and employs a common man-machine interface (MMI) on a standard laptop computer to control the HCLOS and the Hughes HX System.

"Many U.S. military units and Coalition forces currently are based in areas with mountainous or difficult terrains, where ensuring seamless communications beyond-line-of-sight and OTM is critical," added Rick Lober, vice president and general manager of the Defense & Intelligence Systems Division (DISD), Hughes. "We are pleased to partner with Ultra TCS to demonstrate this capability at LandWarNet 2009."

Capable of OTM, at-the-halt (ATH), or at fixed sites, the integrated "Never-Out-of-Touch" communications solution is ideal for field operations. Lightweight, with a small footprint, it is easy to set up and compatible with fielded equipment; an upgrade kit for deployed equipment also will be available.