L3Harris Technologies has tested the integration of commercial space internet with the company’s RASOR open radio during a live unmanned air combat maneuver demonstration.
The RASOR is a modular open systems approach (MOSA) platform supporting rapid multi-mission connectivity across available waveforms.
Conducted by General Atomics, the trial involved the deployment of separate RASORs with a transceiver card and active electronically scanned array to assist beyond line-of-sight, data, and command-and-control missions.
Leveraging Commercial Internet for Defense Applications
According to L3Harris, the demonstration showcased MOSA technology’s advantage in military-grade low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connection for US Department of Defense next-generation missions.
“The successful demonstration illustrates our commitment to enabling commercial space internet capabilities for the United States and its allies on unmanned platforms,” L3Harris Air Force Programs General Manager and Vice President Ron Fehlen stated.
“Our goal is to extend this type of connection for all collaborative combat aircraft and other autonomous collaborative platforms around the globe, utilizing LEO satellites. RASOR is – and will continue to – lead the resilient and advanced capability needs of our customer’s missions.”
L3Harris RASOR Platform
The RASOR was built to support heightened air, land, and sea mission readiness.
The radio establishes new data pathways to secure information access by offering quick deployment and insertion of associated communication capabilities supporting joint all-domain command and control and near-peer combat operations.
RASOR is housed in L3Harris’ Rapidly Adaptable Ruggedized Enclosure or RARE, a 3D-printed chassis serving three to 12 communication module slots depending on user requirements.