Selex ES, a Finmeccanica company, has launched the TacSat Razor Antenna, an innovative solution to the need to provide front-line forces with robust, lightweight, on-the-move, high performance tactical satellite communications to optimize communications.

The antenna was displayed at the Selex ES stand at SOFEX Exhibition this week (6-8 May 2014, Amman, Jordan).

Weighing around 1kg, the TacSat Razor Antenna uses patented product design to offer a rapid deployment antenna, with a maximum 20W power output in the UHF tacsat band. It is designed specifically for physically demanding battlefield conditions, whilst addressing the relevant radiation hazard standards.

Innovative and patented construction and deployment technologies make it easy and quick to deploy; and able to be operated in a “hands free” mode, keeping troops both ready for action and fully informed. The TacSat Razor Antenna can be simply attached to the side of a standard military rucksack. Alternatively, it can be mounted on a standard tripod or camera spike or on a vehicle using a magnetic mount.

Users simply pull a strap to launch the antenna from its housing. The antenna is withdrawn back into the container by pulling the same strap in the other direction. A modular construction facilitates cleaning and ease of repair in the field.

The TacSat Razor Antenna reduces time to deploy and snagging; and eliminates the soldier ‘down time’ incurred by less effective ergonomic designs. It is environmentally qualified to Mil Std 810-G and is IP68 rated for water immersion. An instruction manual is provided.