Royal Navy's Type 26 ship equipped with comms system

The core component is the R&S NAVICS, a new IP-based switching system with a security concept.

The integrated communications system from Rohde & Schwarz for the Type 26 GCS covers both internal and external communications. Built around the innovative R&S NAVICS IP-based switching system, it interconnects the distributed on-board voice terminals as well as all other subsystems for internal and external communications via a uniform IP network.

The system uses ruggedised, conventional IT technology with accreditable security provided by Rohde & Schwarz. As a result, the number of voice terminals can be reduced and ATEX smartphones employed within security-critical environments ('man on the move'). Operation of the technically complex system is kept uncomplicated through the use of an intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI).

With this system, BAE Systems and Rohde & Schwarz will bring the advantages of IT technology to naval communications for the first time, while also helping with the issue of obsolescence. A common infrastructure will be set up for all services on board, named 'shared network infrastructure' and 'shared computing environment'. The open architecture will facilitate connection of future technologies.

External communications will be handled by the Rohde & Schwarz VHF/UHF and HF transceivers from the R&S M3SR family of radios (R&S Series4400 and R&S Series4100). The Rohde & Schwarz radio equipment will provide both TRANSEC and advanced high speed data transmission. RF filters and hopping EPM filters will ensure interference-free communications. The RF filter technology will be combined with the latest Rohde & Schwarz antenna and mast designs.

Bosco Novak, Executive Vice President of the Radiocommunications Systems Division, reported: "We are proud to be part of this project aimed at bringing further enhancements to this leading-edge platform. We bring with us our many years of experience in the naval sector and offer technological innovations for future-ready, secure and efficient communications equipment."

The contract to equip the most advanced T26 GCS is the latest in a series of successes for Rohde & Schwarz in providing naval equipment in the United Kingdom. These include communications solutions for the Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft carriers, Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s Bay Class Vessels. International references include the equipping of the Australian Hobart Class Air Warfare Destroyers, the Royal Dutch Navy LCF Frigates and Landing Platform Docking ships (LPDs) as well as the F100 Class Frigates and LPD for the Spanish Navy.