Next-gen wideband high frequency communications link demonstrated by Rockwell Collins
NewsSeptember 18, 2017
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa. Engineers at Rockwell Collins demonstrated the resilience of next-generation high frequency (HF) communications using a wideband high frequency (WBHF) system over a 5,000 mile distance. The demo was conducted under a contract with the Air Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate (AFRL/RI) and in support of AFRL/RI and Air Combat Command?s efforts to successfully communicate in satellite-denied environments.
Over the course of 30 days, Rockwell Collins’ next-generation HF network reliably and rapidly passed data files of various sizes up to 1 megabyte. The demonstration, which showed significant improvement over standard satellite and legacy HF systems, also tested ‘store and forward’ split site capabilities, which is a foundational element of next-generation HF networks.
Next-generation HF is a highly reliable solution for the transfer of data and secure, clear voice, which complements traditional SATCOM communications in denied environments. The technology leverages current HF system infrastructure to create an easily upgraded HF solution with performance previously not available.
The program will continue exploring the optimum network configuration and waveform technologies for this HF application. Leveraging next-generation HF technologies, like WBHF, allows for HF networks to become a future force enhancer.
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