Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS)

Handheld, Manpack, Small Form Fit (HMS) 

General Dynamics C4 Systems is leading the Joint Tactical Radio System HMS Team to bring miniaturized software defined radio technology into small devices such as unattended ground sensors and soldier systems that can overcome size, weight and power constraints. The General Dynamics team includes BAE Systems of Wayne, N.J., Rockwell Collins of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Thales Communications of Clarksburg, Md.

JTRS requirements extend down the operational spectrum to all embedded applications. These applications include:

• Intelligent Munition Systems
• Unattended Ground Sensors
• Sensor and Munition Gateway Radios
• Unattended Ground Vehicle Systems
• Soldier Systems
• Weapon Datalinks
• Small Unattended Aerial Vehicles
• Handheld Radios
• Manpack Radios

While these varied applications have different mission needs, they share common core requirements. Our Small Form Fit Software Defined Radio architecture leverages these common requirements into a set of core modules. Core modules are combined, configured, and packaged for mission-specific needs. This approach not only provides volume production and life-cycle-cost effectiveness, it further ensures waveform portability and interoperability cross platform.

Key technologies involved in our solution include:

• Programmable security solutions that are tightly integrated into the overall Small Form Fit architecture; these security solutions have already proven to be certifiable in similar products and leverage commercial components
• State-of-the-art digital signal processing circuitry increasing integration at the component level and enabling large improvements in size, weight, and power performance
• Broadband RF front end and power amplifier technologies
• Software communications architecture not just optimized for performance but also customized for embedded applications
• Advanced power management techniques and technologies proven in the commercial handset marketplace
• Unique techniques for mitigating cosite problems
• A portfolio of software-defined waveforms and crypto algorithms
• High-volume, high-reliability manufacturing capabilities

“U.S. Army Shows Vision for Networked Battlefield” by Kate Brannen (Defense News) READ ARTICLE

“Joint Handheld/Manpack Radio Allows Soldiers to Pierce the Fog of War” by Loren B. Thompson (Lexington Institute) READ ARTICLE