Boeing to deliver JTRS radios for FCS

Boeing plans to deliver the first batch of Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) Cluster 1 radios later this month to the Army for experimentation on the Future Combat System (FCS) program.

Boeing received seven pre-engineering development JTRS radios last month from BAE Systems and Rockwell Collins. Boeing is installing software on the radios that includes the single-channel ground air radio system waveform and the first increment of the wideband networking waveform, according to a Dec. 21 company statement.

“We’re on track to deliver additional JTRS Cluster 1 radios to the FCS program throughout 2006,” said Ralph Moslener, Boeing’s program manager for the JTRS Cluster 1 program. The company plans to distribute 40 radios for experimentation this year.

JTRS is a radio that acts like a computer and will let warfighters communicate on several frequencies from one radio. FCS is the Army’s next-generation fighting force of 18 lighter, armored, manned and robotic air and ground systems connected by a fast, secure network that will make soldiers safer and more lethal.

Both multibillion-dollar programs have been restructured because of technology issues. The Defense Department will issue a plan soon on how to best develop and procure JTRS radios that come in different versions for Army vehicles and helicopters, Navy and Air Force ships and aircraft, and warfighters’ handheld and wearable devices.