KNL and Bittium have started a technology collaboration to provide a seamless data network that extends from line-of-sight to beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) ranges. By integrating KNL’s Cognitive Networked HF (CNHF) radios with Bittium’s TAC WIN system and Tough SDR radios, the companies have created an fully interoperable solution that securely connects local tactical networks with remote users over thousands of kilometres.
In the joint solution, KNL’s CNHF radios deliver long-range HF connectivity beyond the horizon, while Bittium’s IP-based TAC WIN system and Tough SDR radios provide resilient VHF/UHF communications over line-of-sight distances. The radios do not need a common waveform; instead, integration is achieved purely on IP level, allowing users to extend existing networks without changing their current waveforms or radio platforms.
The interoperability has been proven in joint demonstrations, where Bittium’s Tough SDR radios and KNL’s CNHF Manpack radios were interconnected over IP/Ethernet to bridge VHF/UHF and HF. CNHF Manpack radios provided BLOS links from remote patrols to the backbone network, where TAC WIN and Tough SDR radios ensured line-of-sight connectivity. The network delivered seamless data for services such as SIP messaging and battle management systems, enhancing situational awareness.
The combined solution forms a mobile, resilient, and agile secure, sovereign military network that supports data and voice across multi-domain operations. The network is self-organising and self-healing, designed to withstand electronic warfare and operate independently of existing infrastructure, ensuring that users remain connected even when other networks fail.
“This isn’t traditional HF communication with two operators holding handsets. It’s data flowing directly from beyond the horizon into tactical IP networks and command systems – and vice versa. Our combined solution enables connecting tactical bubbles across the scattered battlefield and extension of core network services even to the most remote soldiers operating beyond the enemy lines. The collaboration with Bittium demonstrates how modern HF functions as a natural part of IP-based battle management systems” says Toni Lindén, CEO of KNL.
“The cooperation with KNL brings a new long‑range dimension to Bittium’s tactical networks, enabling seamless hybrid communications across multi-domain operations. Thanks to IP‑level integration, networks can be expanded flexibly across wide geographical areas, improving command and control and strengthening interoperability between nations. This is also essential from the perspective of European sovereignty. We are entering an era in which defense networks are increasingly complex and combine several different technologies. Bittium’s and KNL’s technologies interconnect into a single resilient entity that scales dynamically according to operational needs. The goal is a comprehensive network in which every connection, whether HF, satellite, or commercial 5G, functions seamlessly as part of the same IP‑based architecture, providing continuous situational awareness for command and control in all conditions”, says Tommi Kangas, Senior Vice President of Bittium’s Defence & Security Business Segment.
