Marines order Harris wideband tactical radios

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Jan. 14 (UPI) -- Harris Corporation is supplying the U.S. Marine Corps with its Falcon III radio systems as part of a USMC program for wideband tactical networking.

The radio systems for use on vehicles -- plus accessories -- are based on the company's Falcon III AN/PRC-117G system, a manpack radio with tactical internet capability for voice, video and data communication.

"This order represents a strategic investment that will enable the Marine Corps to keep pace with rapidly changing technology," said George Helm, president, Department of Defense business, Harris RF Communications. "Our radios meet current military requirements and are positioned for future enhancements through software upgrades.

"We've already incorporated the Soldier Radio Waveform into the radio, and will be adding advanced tactical satellite communications capabilities offered by the new Mobile User Objective System. This flexible approach fulfills the vision of the Joint Tactical Radio System."

Harris said the contract is worth $15 million. It did not, however, disclose how many units would be provided to the Marines or a delivery schedule for the equipment.