US Army Places 9th Delivery Order for HMS Manpack Radio Modernization Program

Collins Aerospace has received its ninth delivery order from the U.S. Army to provide AN/PRC-162 ground radios for the Handheld, Manpack and Small Form Fit (HMS) program.

The AN/PRC-162 is a fully software-defined communications solution that features two, independent, channels across all frequencies for seamless voice, data, route and retransmission functionality. Additionally, the PRC-162 provides increased power output, longer battery life and improved signal sensitivity in one of the smallest form factors on the market.

The AN/PRC-162 allows the Army to maintain interoperability with legacy waveforms such as Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS), and next-gen waveforms such as Trellisware's TSM® waveform and Warrior Robust Enhanced Network (WREN) waveform. Additionally, the AN/PRC-162 includes upgraded tactical satellite communications through implementation of the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS).

The AN/PRC -162 also brings high performance to the battlefield in dismounted and vehicular mounted solutions. The optional compact vehicle mounting kit can be retrofitted in the field in less than a day, providing lower life cycle costs and flexibility in deployment.

“The ability to communicate across multiple waveforms, and providing warfighters with improved situational awareness, is critical to the success of CJDAC2,” said Ryan Bunge, vice president and general manager, Communication, Navigation and Guidance Solutions for Collins Aerospace. “For decades we’ve developed and delivered advanced communications capabilities with our airborne radios, and this interoperable solution leverages our expertise for both ground and air assets.”

This ninth order was issued under a multiple award contract that the Army awarded to Collins Aerospace and two other companies in 2016. The contract has a $12.7 billion ceiling with an ordering period ending March 2026.