Simplifying Military Communications Systems

All branches of the U.S. military are aiming to modernize their command and control systems, and REDCOM’s solutions are designed to address the systems’ complex operational communication challenges, said John Kelliher, director of strategy and research and development at REDCOM.

Kelliher, in an interview with SIGNAL Media for the Executive Video Series, explained that REDCOM’s modernization efforts are focused on reducing infrastructure and complexity.

“Our focus on scalability and interoperability and simplicity is so that we can offer the warfighter the needed level of adaptability to maximize the chance of success at maintaining communications in a heavily denied and degraded environment,” Kelliher said.

REDCOM’s Sigma software and XRI hardware provide radio, voice and video capabilities to warfighters, reducing the number of communication devices needed during missions.

Specifically, Sigma Client for ATAK (Android Tactical Assault Kit) allows soldiers to use their Android smartphone or tablet as a push-to-talk client with data and communication at their fingertips. Kelliher said with the ATAK plug-in, users can access map data, mission graphics and intelligence sources on their small devices so they can talk with teammates between devices, via aircraft radio and satellite communications.

REDCOM recently launched Sigma version 4.3.0 with additional features such as spatial audio with four audio channels, shareable video streaming and the ability to set visual indicators based on security classification levels.

Kelliher said REDCOM is focused on gathering user feedback to enhance products, offering high-quality products and adopting new technology for adaptable solutions that reduce complexity for warfighters. The company is also looking into artificial intelligence and machine learning technology for troubleshooting so systems can make corrections as the environment changes and problems arise.

Recognizing that technology has changed the way nations fight, Kelliher emphasized that REDCOM is expanding its manufacturing capabilities to branch out into the unmanned systems arena.

“The focus now is really on mass, with acceptance or even expectation for high rates of attrition, and when it becomes a war of attrition, it's really becoming a war of manufacturing,” Kelliher explained. “So, it is critically important that we have scalable U.S.-based manufacturing to address this, and even as a woman-owned small business, REDCOM has the capacity and expertise in manufacturing to make an impact.”