Kongsberg Gruppen ASA

11/26/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/26/2024 05:43

When it matters most – Secure connections on the frontline

In the heat of conflict,

where every second counts and decisions are made in the blink of an eye,

communication is more than just an exchange of information - it's a lifeline.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Here is a link to the video instead.

When soldiers are on the move in harsh terrains or under threat of electronic warfare, secure and reliable communication is essential for coordination, command, and control.

  • Text:Amanda Chapman-Stavn / KONGSBERG

    Photo:Forsvaret / Norwegian Armed Forces

At Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace ('KONGSBERG'), we've dedicated decades to mastering this complex field, ensuring that our tactical communications systems not only keep pace with the demands of modern defence but set new standards for resilience and security.

Designed to withstand the toughest conditions

KONGSBERG's communications equipment is designed to perform under the toughest conditions imaginable. Built to withstand everything from rugged landscapes to electronic interference, our systems are built to keep the lines of communication open when it matters most. Soldiers on the ground need equipment they can rely on - technology that won't falter in extreme weather, or when enemy forces attempt to disrupt communications.

"In the field, our systems serve as a crucial lifeline for forces facing the toughest conditions," says Gaute Haga Andersen, Principal System Engineer at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

"Each component is engineered for dependable performance, wherever it's needed."

For over 40 years, KONGSBERG has provided tactical communications solutions to defence forces in more than 30 countries. This deep expertise means we understand the challenges on the front lines and have tailored our technology to meet those needs. By focusing on high-quality, durable designs, we ensure that soldiers can depend on clear, secure communication whether they're moving across deserts, navigating urban environments, or securing coastal areas.

Seamless communication

Modern military operations require a mix of existing and new technology, which is why KONGSBERG's systems are designed to work seamlessly with both state-of-the-art IP-based systems and existing legacy infrastructure. By bridging these networks, we help forces integrate advanced, secure technology without losing the connectivity that's already in place.

This flexibility is crucial in joint or multinational operations, where interoperability between different platforms and forces is essential. For instance, our trunked network solutions are used for Command and Control in armies at divisional to battalion level, while also being able to support coordination and real-time fire support across mobile Air Defence Systems and Field Artillery. Whether connecting troops in the field or ensuring reliable communication backbones for air defence systems like NASAMS, HAWK, and Patriot, our solutions are built to adapt and integrate across command structures.

"Our approach to communications systems is all about flexibility and interoperability," explains Ragnar Dag Wik, Principal System Engineer at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

"We know how critical it is to bridge gaps across platforms and standards, especially in complex joint operations."

Resilience in contested environments

One of the biggest challenges in modern warfare is the threat of Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations and cyber-attacks, where enemy forces attempt to jam or disrupt communication channels. In these contested and congested spectrum conditions, standard communications solutions often fall short. KONGSBERG's systems are different. With technology that automatically shifts to any available channel and prioritises the use of anti-jam waveforms, our communications systems stay operational even under enemy Electronic Attack.

KONGSBERG's advanced communications systems are built with cyber resilience and high-level encryption, designed to prevent interception, safeguard confidentiality, and ensure data integrity. As one of few authorised crypto providers within NATO, KONGSBERG delivers solutions aligned with NATO standards like NINE, SCIP, and FMN, ensuring interoperability and secure communications across multinational operations.

The capability to work in Denied, Degraded, Intermittent, or Limited (DDIL) environments ensures that forces remain connected, informed, and able to respond. Our THOR Radio System, for example, provides a range of waveforms that support all from long range "last-ditch" communications link that can be relied upon when other systems are compromised to well protected low latency high capacity links for Air Defence systems. The THOR Communication Controller leverages the use of multiple channels, including commercial networks when available, to ensure continuous and secure connections, even in unpredictable conditions.

"Our communications solutions are designed to adapt in real time, ensuring reliability in conditions where others might fail," says Lars Erik Tveita, Senior System Engineer at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. "Whether it's jamming or cyber interference, our technology is built to overcome it."

Simplifying complexity with intelligent integration

Modern combat demands simple, intuitive systems that operators can use without extensive training. KONGSBERG's communication solutions are designed with this in mind, integrating advanced metrics like signal strength, error rates, and data traffic to dynamically adapt connections. This means that the complexity of network management is hidden from the operator - allowing personnel to focus on the mission rather than troubleshooting connectivity.

Using policy-based controls, our systems can adjust to new operational requirements as situations evolve. This adaptability makes KONGSBERG's solutions invaluable in the field, providing the operational flexibility needed to ensure mission success and operational safety in the most dynamic environments.

"We're constantly refining our systems to make them more intuitive and responsive for the operator," notes Wik. "At the end of the day, it's about making communication as seamless and reliable as possible for the users."

Built to "do the job" - Today and in the future

At KONGSBERG, our commitment is to provide systems that perform precisely as intended: ensuring secure, reliable communication under all conditions. Adapting to the philosophy of being "as commercial as possible, as military as necessary" our solutions going forward balance advanced functionality with cost-effectiveness by integrating both military-grade and commercial technology.

"Our role is to ensure that defence forces have the tools they need to communicate securely and reliably in any situation."

"Whether for peacekeeping or combat operations, our systems are built to meet the need," explains André Salte, Manager Business Development at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

Looking ahead, we're developing solutions that address the unique demands of tactical environments, supporting soldiers and tactical utility platforms on land, at sea, and in littoral zones, whether crewed, uncrewed or autonomous. Secure communication remains essential for both real-time systems, like NASAMS, and uncrewed solutions, where available bandwidth often determines the level of autonomy a platform can operate at.

Through years of partnership with military forces and a deep understanding of the evolving nature of defence, KONGSBERG's tactical communication systems are built to support the needs of today's missions and anticipate the challenges of tomorrow. Whether it is about supporting a vehicle convoy, connecting dismounted soldiers, or securing critical Air Defence systems, KONGSBERG's communications technology remains a cornerstone of safety and coordination for forces around the world.

In an era where secure communication is vital to mission success, KONGSBERG's expertise provides defence forces with assurance that connectivity remains unbroken when it matters the most.