Thales UK has received a contract from BAE Systems worth in excess of GBP50M to supply the Transmission Subsystem and Security Subsystem for the FALCON Programme. Thales UK is a key partner in the BAE Systems FALCON team, which has been awarded a contract to supply the first increment of the FALCON information infrastructure programme.

FALCON will support the Armys command systems by providing a new high capacity, secure information system infrastructure capability at the operational and tactical levels of command that can be deployed rapidly by air into any theatre of operations. The system has greatly improved data throughput, multi-level security, mobility and manpower efficiencies compared with current systems. The Bowman tactical system and Cormorant command system will feed information into FALCON, which will be able to link back to UK headquarters using the Skynet 5 satellite communications system. In line with the Defence Industrial Strategy, FALCON is key to the Resilient Information Infrastructure of Network Enabled Capability (NEC) by providing the modern, secure communications infrastructure required by deployed formations and operating bases.

Thales is supplying the Transmission Subsystem (TxSS) and cryptographic security components. The TxSS is solution which provides a high degree of operational flexibility. The Thales TRC4000 34Mbps Band IV line of sight radio is complemented by the Ultra GRC-245 Band I/III radio. These radios offer a combination of range, bandwidth and functionality, together with high physical and electronic resilience. Lightweight composite masts from Mastsystem of Finland and Thales Datacryptor Model 3T Link Encryptors complete the TxSS.

In addition to the Link Encryptor, Thales is also supplying Datacryptor Model 3T IP Packet Network Encryptors. These security products offer a solution by utilising Thales proven programmable cryptographic technology, which will reduce overall programme costs and bring FALCON into service quickly. The ability to upgrade via technology insertion provides future proofing ensuring that the system will remain up to date as technology advances. Thales will also supply the Datacryptor Model 3Ts flexible key management solution adapted for tactical applications.

Related links: (Open in a new window.)
www.thalesgroup.co.uk/

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