The Australian Defence Force has transferred high-quality imagery and colour video via wideband high frequency radio as part of RAAF technology transformation effort known as Plan Jericho.
The trial of the technology at HMAS Harman near Canberra is a major technical advance over the existing high frequency radio infrastructure, Defence stated.
During the tests a standard internet protocol data link was established between an Australian Army node operating at HMAS Harman, the Chief Information Officer Group’s strategic high frequency network at RAAF Base Townsville and RAAF Base Wagga, and an AP-3C Orion at RAAF Base Edinburgh.
The testing of the communications system is a joint initiative undertaken in collaboration with industry partner Rockwell Collins.
Voice communications, messages, photographs and videos can be transferred via the wideband high frequency radio system, which does not rely on satellites. The technology can provide data rates up to 10 times faster than with current fielded systems.
“Being able to transfer secure data via the WBHF radio could provide greater flexibility and survivability to the Australian Defence Force in the future,” WGCDR Daniel Howarth said.
“Whether it’s a real time conversation, streaming live video or the rapid transfer of large data files, this technology has the ability to deliver a true sovereign beyond line of sight communications capability for us.”
