The Framework Agreement positions Thales as a key partner for the Irish Defence Forces

The SquadNet radio system is compact, lightweight, and easy to use and offers 24-hour autonomy, making it ideal for dismounted soldier. In addition to secure voice communications, location display and a data sharing option, SquadNet offers battery recharging and radio programming capabilities. This solution has been adopted notably by the Austrian armed forces.

SYNAPS is based on developments conducted for CONTACT in France, Europe’s largest software radio programme. The contract includes the supply of the entire range of SYNAPS radios: SYNAPS-H hand-held radios for land forces, SYNAPS-V radios for land vehicles and naval vessels, and SYNAPS-A radios for various Air Corps aircraft. This solution has been adopted for instance by the Belgian armed forces.

In addition to the radio equipment, the agreement also includes the provision of digital services to maintain all the radios delivered.

Ireland has chosen to acquire radio systems, which enable interoperability with partner nations on deployment overseas, thanks to the GEOMUX waveform widely deployed in Europe and the secure, resilient ESSOR High Data Rate (HDR) interoperability waveform.

Deliveries to Ireland will have already commenced with the first batch of SquadNet radios delivered in the second quarter of 2024.

“We’re delighted to be supporting the Irish Defence Forces in their drive to modernise their capabilities and pursue their digital transformation. By selecting software-defined radios from Thales, Ireland’s armed forces have the assurance of continuity in their operational missions and a smooth transition to this new radio technology,” said Christophe Salomon, Executive Vice-President, Secure Communications & Information Systems, Thales.