Bittium is part of the Operational Capability 1 (OC1) phase that continues the European Secure Software defined Radio (ESSOR) program, during which the operational capabilities of ESSOR High Data Rate Waveform (HDR WF), meant for joint operations between defense forces of different countries, will be enhanced. The contract for the OC1 phase between the industrial consortium a4ESSOR (Alliance for ESSOR), including companies developing the European Software Defined Radio technology, and Organization Conjointe de Coopération en matière d’ARmement (OCCAR), representing the ESSOR participant countries, was announced on 7 November.

The ESSOR HDR WF is also part of Bittium’s new Bittium Tough SDR™ tactical radios, Bittium Tough SDR Handheld™ and Bittium Tough SDR Vehicular™. The radios together with the waveform enable broadband data transfer, joint operations, and direct communication between defense forces of different countries in international operations starting from the battle group and combat vehicle level. With the development of the operational capabilities of the ESSOR HDR WF during the OC 1 phase the new functionalities will also be available for the Tough SDR family of radios.

Bittium Tough SDR products can flexibly use the most appropriate waveform, such as ESSOR HDR WF, Bittium TAC WIN Waveform™ or Bittium Narrowband Waveform™, having the best fit considering the conditions and the mission. The wide range of frequency bands improves combat usability and enables flexible use of the equipment. Using several waveforms, even simultaneously, improves compatibility and enables operations on different levels and missions.

The duration of the ESSOR OC1 phase is 45 months and the value of the contract is around €50 million. The value of the contract will be divided along the duration of the OC1 phase and between the five participant companies: Bittium, Indra, Leonardo, Radmor, and Thales.