General Dynamics demos new radio tech

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Nov. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. company General Dynamics says its new military radio technologies are capable of tactical communication while soldiers are in transit.

General Dynamics is showcasing its Handheld, Manpack and Small Form Fit, or HMS, radio technology at the 2008 MILCOM convention in San Diego. Company officials say the newly developed software system in HMS radios provides military units on the move with the ability to transmit large amounts of information.

The HMS, a joint tactical radio system and wideband networking waveform technology, is under development for the Defense Department. Officials say the U.S. Army Evaluation Task Force is currently evaluating the new HMS in simulated close combat trials.

The "HMS is in a class by itself for performance and efficiency," Chris Brady, General Dynamics C4 Systems vice president of Assured Communications Systems, said in a statement.