L3Harris Delivers Next-Gen SATCOM Solutions to US Army
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Mar 19, 2024

L3Harris Technologies is at the forefront of enhancing the U.S. Army's battlefield capabilities by providing cutting-edge, resilient, and scalable SATCOM terminals through its Hawkeye III Lite Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT). These state-of-the-art systems are designed to meet the growing demand for high-speed satellite communications, facilitating rapid maneuverability and deployment capabilities essential in the digital battlefield era.

The Hawkeye III Lite VSAT is distinguished by its lightweight, modular design, and ease of integration, ensuring real-time situational awareness critical for modern combat operations. Its capability to be configured for use on commercial aircraft via integrated Internet Protocol-based network architectures, alongside supporting diverse requirement sets with minimal latency and high data rates, marks a significant advancement in tactical communication technologies.

Chris Aebli, L3Harris president of Tactical Communications, emphasizes the importance of these terminals in providing uninterrupted mission command and support for maneuver forces across contested battlefields. The terminals' high-speed data communications, network flexibility, and compatibility with various frequency bands establish a comprehensive multi-domain communications infrastructure for the Army.

The U.S. Army's shift towards expeditionary transport began in 2018, culminating in L3Harris being awarded the contract in 2020 after a competitive selection process. The partnership also encompasses support, sustainment, and specialized training for users and maintenance personnel. Since the initial award, L3Harris has secured four subsequent orders under this program, with the latest amounting to $60 million.

Bill Seiss, L3Harris director of U.S. Army Tactical Communications programs, and Zsanette McKinney, L3Harris Account Management lead, both highlight the system's advanced features, including its backward compatibility, triband capability, and auto-acquire feature, ensuring seamless integration and operational efficiency. Related Links
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