Harris Corporation, an international communications and information technology company, has received initial orders totaling $5.6 million for its newly introduced Falcon III® RF-7800H high-frequency wideband manpack radio.

The RF-7800H is the first HF radio to add wideband data capabilities, allowing users to transmit tactical images and other large data files over beyond-line-of-sight links.

The radio offers data rates that are 10 times greater than current HF manpacks. This enhancement is significant because it provides warfighters greater capabilities to transmit data in obstructed line-of-sight mission environments such as mountains and urban terrain.

“These initial orders highlight the broad applications for the RF-7800H in a range of different tactical scenarios and operating requirements. The RF-7800H lightens the soldier's load while delivering streamlined command and control and a more informed force. In addition, this new HF radio, combined with Harris' new RF 3590 Ruggedized Tablet, supports the use of current and future C4ISR multimedia apps for international and DoD customers alike by enabling secure voice and high bandwidth data communication over thousands of kilometers,” said Brendan O'Connell, President, International business unit, Harris RF Communications.

The new RF-7800H is 20% smaller and lighter than previous HF manpacks and operates on a single battery. It also features a Software Communications Architecture-based operating environment that allows for easy upgrades to deliver new features and address emerging requirements. The RF-7800H offers the first highly reliable alternative to satellite communications for beyond line-of-sight data communications.

The wider bandwidth waveform in the RF-7800H provides more robust communications than traditional narrowband tactical communications environments. Weighing just under 4 kilograms, the RF-7800H provides continuous coverage in the 1.5 MHz to 60 MHz frequency band.

The RF-7800H has an internal GPS and offers both Citadel and AES encryption. It is fully backwards compatible with the Harris Falcon II HF product line and accessories. Harris has delivered more than 100,000 Falcon II high-frequency manpack radios worldwide.