Rockwell Collins recently conducted two live over-the-air tests of its Wideband High Frequency (WBHF) radio between Ottawa and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. During the tests, the team was able to demonstrate streaming full-color video and ad hoc Internet Protocol networking over an HF link.
“In addition to supporting data rates up to ten times faster than available in currently fielded systems, the operational significance of this advancement in HF communications is that standard Internet Protocol applications, including video, can now be supported over HF,” said Lee Obst, managing director, Rockwell Collins Canada. “This permits the integration of HF networks into the C4ISR infrastructure versus their predominant use as a backup communication system.”
The tests were witnessed by more than 30 senior officers and non-commissioned officers of various branches of the Canadian Department of National Defence. Additional demonstrations are planned for this summer.