Harris Corporation, an international communications and information technology company, has introduced a backpack version of its award-winning KnightHawk™ mobile tactical cellular network solution that provides warfighters with high-bandwidth connectivity and enables the use of smart apps at the tactical edge of the battlefield.

Harris is the leading global supplier of secure radio communications and embedded high-grade encryption solutions for military, government and commercial organizations. The company's Falcon® family of software-defined tactical radio systems encompasses manpack, handheld and vehicular applications.

The new KnightLite™ complements primary radio communications and enables warfighters on the move with cellular connectivity in locations with limited or no infrastructure.

The KnightLite system is built upon industry leading Universal Mobile Telecommunications System technology, which leverages mature cellular technology and helps ensure cost effective deployment. In addition to voice, high-speed data, video, and SMS messaging, the KnightLite system supports High-Speed Packet Access, which allows for dynamic allocation of data resources to mobile devices and efficiently utilizes bandwidth to allow more devices to access the network simultaneously. It is compatible with commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) smartphones and tablets.

KnightLite can operate autonomously or as a scalable network for increased coverage. The combination of inexpensive COTS smartphones and tablets along with simultaneous high-bandwidth access for multiple users helps keep warfighters safe and on-task, minimizes loss of life, and enhances mission effectiveness and success.

With high data rates and the ability to operate over a wide temperature range in harsh environments, KnightLite delivers connectivity at the edge to support current demands for smartphone applications. KinghtLite is approximately the same weight and form factor as today's tactical manpack radios. Its innovative design is also compatible with existing tactical radio batteries, antennas and accessories, and can be installed in tactical radio mounts for vehicular operations.

“KnightLite has the same key functionality as KnightHawk, but in a form that supports dismounted operations in remote and rugged locations where warfighters often have to travel by foot,” said Sheldon Fox, Group President, Harris Government Communications Systems.

“In addition to our tactical radios, troops will also be able to carry the latest 3G and 4G LTE networking systems, enabling the use of smartphones and tablets such as our RF-3590. KnightLite takes important new capabilities to the tactical edge,” he added.