Acting as backbone for FDF tactical data transfer
The Finnish Minister of Defence Jussi Niinistö has authorised the Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) to purchase Bittium Tactical Wireless IP Network (TAC WIN) system products. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) informed about the authorisation on 6 July. Bittium and FDF currently plan to sign a Framework Agreement for the delivery of the radios, to be delivered 2018-2020. The total value of the agreement is €30 million. According to the Framework Agreement, FDF would issue separate purchase orders each year.
The Framework Agreement will be a continuation to the long cooperation between the two and will continue the renewal of FDF’s command, control and communications system, where the Software-Defined Radio (SDR) based Bittium TAC WIN system acts as the backbone for tactical data transfer. Bittium TAC WIN provides broadband IP network connections for mobile communication stations and command posts. In the reformed combat doctrine of FDF, mobility, leading the troops on the move and effective communications play a key role.
On 14 June, Bittium has received a purchase order (€0.9 million) for supplying the Finnish Air Force (FAF) with Bittium TAC WIN, as part of the modernisation of the radio network performance of FAF’s bases with an SDR based IP radio system. Deliveries are ongoing throughout this year.
Furthermore, on 6 March an order for €3.8 million was received for the renewal of the Finnish Army’s command, control and communications system, where the Software-Defined Radio based Bittium TAC WIN system forms the core of the Army’s tactical wireless IP network.