DTC Demonstrates Exceptional Long-Range HF Radio Performance in Tier 1 Trial

One of the standout milestones was the successful bidirectional exchange of encrypted low data communications at 3,300 km between two manpack radios, one operating with a dipole antenna and the other using only a compact 3m whip antenna.

This week, DTC | A Codan Company participated in a high-profile technical experimentation exercise, joining multiple Tier 1 communications units to assess the performance and survivability of high-frequency (HF) radio communications over long distances.

The trial set out to evaluate both technical compatibility and operational endurance across a range of real-world environments. Test links were established between base station radios in Western Europe and manpack radios positioned as far away as the Middle East and continental United States. Remarkably, the exercise achieved secure voice and low data transmissions over distances exceeding 6,000 km—an unprecedented accomplishment using field-deployable tactical equipment.

One of the standout milestones was the successful bidirectional exchange of encrypted low data communications at 3,300 km between two manpack radios, one operating with a dipole antenna and the other using only a compact 3m whip antenna. These results underscore the resilience and performance potential of modern HF communications systems in expeditionary scenarios.

Technical specialists from DTC regional offices were deployed to support the field operations, but much of the success is credited to the skill and determination of the end users themselves—reinforcing the expectation that the equipment must perform regardless of distance or environmental challenges.

Special acknowledgment was given to Jean-Paul DESSON and Comrod for supplying the APX52 antenna, which achieved reliable 6,000+ km connectivity even when mounted on a simple wooden post and stabilized with string. Two senior operators—whose names remain undisclosed—also played a key role, bringing their extensive expertise in long-range tactical HF communications to the forefront.

This successful trial marks a significant step forward in demonstrating the operational reach and reliability of DTC’s HF communication solutions.