Viasat introduces Secure Wireless Hub for dismounted soldiers

Viasat is introducing its Secure Wireless Hub (SWH), described as a wearable tactical gateway solution.

The SWH system is being developed as part of a multi-phase effort with the U.S. Army, specifically the Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). This is to meet requirements for tactical edge computing and networking, in a small form factor, for dismounted users.

Tactical

“Tactical edge operators are seeking lightweight compute and resilient connectivity solutions to advance Battle Management Command, Control, and Communications (BMC3) capabilities,” said David Schmolke, VP of Mission Connections and Cybersecurity, Viasat Government.

“The Secure Wireless Hub is our latest tactical solution created to support this by addressing interoperability, automation, and security challenges for the dismounted user. The SWH was designed with a focus on a user experience that enables the warfighter to focus on the mission and not the equipment.”

Specification

Based around an ARM 64-bit multi-processor (2x 1.6GHz A72, 4x 1.2GHz A53), it uses Viasat’s mobile software defined networking platform, the Linux-based NetAgility. In terms of storage, there is 8GB of LPDDR4 RAM, 16GB of eMMC storage and support for SDXC microSD (up to 2TB).

There is an edge compute capability, with a secure VPN, for the use of multiple transports and waveforms across a range of devices. Connectivity includes LTE (a 4G LTE CAT 4 cellular modem) and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth (WPA2/WPA3 security and support for Bluetooth 2.1+EDR and BLE 5.2). There is also an Intra Soldier Wireless (ISW) Module with an ultra-wideband transceiver.

You can view the system’s data sheet.

Secure Wireless Hub

The Secure Wireless Hub also uses an App to integrate with military devices as a single source configuration manager.

With a base weight of one kilogram, the SWH system integrates with existing body armour without adding unnecessary weight. It provides an 85 percent reduction in cabling compared to other wearable hub systems, claimed Viasat.

The Californian company was previously working with USSOCOM for a “full customer test and user assessment” of the SWH system during the Strategic Level Joint SOF Fires Exercise in the autumn of last year.

Image: Viasat

See also: Viasat demos satellite-based augmentation system for UK EGNOS