General Dynamics' MUOS radio successfully tested

FAIRFAX, Va., Jan. 12 (UPI) -- U.S. defense officials reported a successful test of General Dynamics' two-channel AN/PRC-155 MUOS-Manpack radio system in its latest demonstration.

During the U.S. Army-conducted demonstration, the radios provided voice and data communications using the Lockheed Martin-made Mobile User Objective System satellites. The demonstration was paired with U.S. Navy MUOS operational tests to determine the system's operational readiness.

The satellite data is designed to provide users with enhanced vocal clarity, which General Dynamics compares to smartphones. The PRC-155 Manpack is currently in use by the U.S. Army, and connects soldiers to the Warfighter Information Network - Tactical, which acts as U.S. military communications hub.

"These radios connect the new MUOS network, bridging lower-tier tactical networks like the soldier radio waveform and SINCGARS radios to the big Army network, reaching back to Army personnel located in the most austere locations," General Dynamics Mission Systems general manager Mike DiBiase explained.

General Dynamics' PRC-155 radio was the first tactical radio to connect with the MUOS network. The company announced it received a contract from the U.S. Army to upgrade the device for vocal clarity and cybersecurity capabilities in March 2015.