Real bad things can happen on the battle field if communication breaks down. In an attempt to seamlessly connect every rifleman to the combat network, Joint Program Executive Office - Joint Tactical Radio Systems (JPEO-JTRS) is developing the Rifleman Radio. This low-cost, lightweight, rugged, handheld device integrates a hands-free headset and a GPS locator, which helps unit leaders locate the positions of their soldiers on an e-map.
With the Rifleman Radio, every soldier on the network is in communication with the others. Moreover, it also offers support or fast transmission of data, including maps and photos. The whole system is self-networked and will expand and contract, depending on the radios being added or subtracted from the net.
Maj. Tracy Mann, of the TRADOC Capability Manager for Tactical Radios cited,
This capability will allow squad leaders and team leaders to talk directly to their subordinates, and their subordinate leaders to be able to command and control their individual squad and platoon battle troops.
The Rifleman Radio makes use of a National Security Agency (NSA) Type 2 certification, which makes information sharing between soldiers highly secure. It delivers deliver 10 to 100 times the bandwidth to the tactical edge.
The handheld device would be of great usage in the battlefield for enabling voice and data communications between the squad leaders and their units for better, timely decisions.
Via: DefenseTech
