Secure Comms and DF Systems for New Coast Guard MRRVs
Rohde & Schwarz has signed a contract with NTT Communications to provide a state-of-the-art IP-based, high quality and reliable maritime integrated communications system for the Philippine Coast Guard, the company announced on 10 September.
The system, dubbed NAVICS, will be integrated into two 94m multi-role response vessels (MRRV) for the Philippine Coast Guard. The ships will be constructed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding, with delivery scheduled for 2022. The MRRVs are being financed by the Japanese government under Phase II of the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project.
Rohde & Schwarz will enhance situational awareness and improve incident reporting with dedicated data communications capabilities, including R&S POSTMAN, a message-handling solution, and MAP TRACK, a blue force tracking functionality. This will enable the ship’s crew to effectively exchange information (voice and data) with the fleet, shore stations, other joint forces and governmental authorities. The system ensures a security architecture that allows for secure, trusted and tamper-proof communications.
“Rohde & Schwarz has provided more than 300 ship platforms with state-of-the-art communications technology. We make sure that we deliver a safe, future-ready investment for our maritime customers on time and on budget,” explained Jacques Jourda, Managing Director of Rohde & Schwarz Japan.
In addition to external line-of-sight (V/UHF) and beyond-line-of-sight (HF) communications, the system will provide onboard communications with smartphone-like intuitive handling. The compact Wi-Fi based wireless voice terminals provide a unique benefit of uninterrupted, high-quality communication while on the move.