Reliable Comms for Allied Submarine Forces

Telefunken Radio Communications, based in Ulm, Germany, has handed over to the end user the NATO naval radio station at Rhauderfehn after a three-year programme of regeneration and modernization.

The company was commissioned to modernize the station in 2016 in order to ensure modern command capability and continuous communication between the German submarine fleet and its NATO partners. Implementation included the integration of modern semiconductor and information technology, as well as training and logistical services.

Formerly, the NATO naval radio station Rhauderfehn was the first of several VLF systems in the NATO network to be converted from VLF MSK transmitters, based on tube technology, to modern semiconductor-based transmitters. This has made possible an operational improvement in signal quality. The regeneration project was conducted under strong time pressure, since a transmission obligation existed within NATO. Due to further technical innovations in the control system, extensive training services for both operating and maintenance personnel also became necessary.