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Archive for the ‘International’ Category

Rheinmetall Marks 40 Years of Canadian Innovation and Economic Contributions

Friday, March 27th, 2026

Rheinmetall is celebrating its 40th anniversary since establishing operations in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. Over the past four decades, the company has become a  trusted partner of militaries around the world and creates jobs, drives innovation, and generates economic benefits across Canada.

Since its establishment in 1986, Rheinmetall Canada has grown to be a global defence and security company providing multi-domain advanced solutions to armed forces worldwide. Its successes over the years have garnered international recognition for expertise in the design and integration of C4I solutions, vehicle systems and weapon systems and is the Canadian leader in autonomous ground systems.

Today, Rheinmetall’s solutions are deployed around the world bolstering international security and ensuring interoperability with Canada’s closest allies in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Global leaders in autonomy

Rheinmetall Canada develops sovereign technologies for autonomous ground systems, rigorously tested in collaboration with allied nations such as Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States. These efforts have resulted in highly adaptable and reliable solutions designed for specific missions and capable of supporting operations in multi-domain environments.

By incorporating lessons learnt from collaboration with Canada’s key allies, the Mission Master family of autonomous vehicles and the PATH autonomy kit have established themselves as industry standards, ensuring full interoperability with NATO member nations.

Valuable economic benefits for Canada

Though its international recognition is held in high regard, Rheinmetall Canada’s focus has remained at home. With operations in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Ottawa, and Edmonton, and a supply chain of over 900 small-to-medium businesses across Canada, Rheinmetall Canada has spent the past four decades leveraging Canadian expertise to deliver more than 20 programs to the Canadian Armed Forces, generating more than CAD 1.5 billion in industrial benefits. In addition, Rheinmetall Canada is proudly engaging with Indigenous communities to strengthen their participation across its supply chain and foster inclusive economic growth.

Rheinmetall Canada has a proven track record of localizing programs such as the Multi-Ammunition Softkill System (MASS), the Mobile Air Starter Unit (MSU), and the Remote-Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS). Building on this foundation, the company has grown exports of Canadian-developed solutions while maintaining economic benefits for its valuable domestic supply chain.

Global demand for the Rheinmetall Path Autonomous Kit and Mission Master suite of autonomous vehicles have further driven domestic growth, enabling expanded production capacity through international partners in the Nordics, Europe and North America—all led by Canada.

A strong advocate for research and development, Rheinmetall Canada collaborates with post-secondary institutions and research centres to advance military and dual-use technologies. By field-testing solutions in real-world environments, Rheinmetall pushes the boundaries of innovation and cements Canada’s position as a driver of next-generation defence capabilities.

A proud Canadian company

As countries around the world turn their focus to next-generation applications to modernize their forces, Rheinmetall Canada is a well-positioned industry leader while maintaining the benefits at home. A continued partnership with Rheinmetall is a commitment to modernize our forces, create high-quality Canadian jobs, grow exports, and strengthen national sovereignty – and this with Canadian-born and Canadian-developed solutions.

MARTE – Main ARmoured Tank of Europe

Wednesday, March 25th, 2026

Key Facts:

  • Half-Time successfully reached at the EDF-Project “MARTE”
  • Actions on track: First technical work packages closed, significant Milestones and Deliverables achieved and approved
  • Strong European industry cooperation confirmed

Bonn, 23.03.2026

The European defence sector entered a new era of industry- and Ministry of Defence-cooperation in the domain of Main Battle Tanks. Funded by the European Defence Fund (EDF), the MARTE project (Main ARmoured Tank of Europe) is far more than a technology project, it is a cornerstone for Europe`s strategic autonomy and military relevance in high intensity land warfare.

MARTE aims to design Europe`s future Main Battle Tank as a system complete that will dominate future battlefields. MARTE sets new standards in multinational capability development by harmonizing the requirements of in total 11 European Member States involved (Germany (lead), Belgium, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Spain and Sweden), including lessons learned from current conflicts. The overall ambitious project goal is to achieve Preliminary Design Review (PDR) maturity within only 24 months.

One year after the official Kick-Off in December 2024, the MARTE project, coordinated and led by MARTE ARGE GbR, a joint venture company between KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG and Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH, now has successfully reached a decisive midterm milestone.

Building on the strong foundation laid at project start, the consortium confirms substantial progress across technical, organizational and strategic aspects within the past 12 months.

Guided by the MARTE Core Team, consisting of MARTE ARGE GbR, KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG and Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH (all Germany), Leonardo SPA (Italy), Indra Sistemas SA (Spain) and SAAB AB (Sweden), the MARTE consortium has managed to complete several technical Work Packages and to submit key deliverables to the granting authority, the European Commission in accordance with the agreed schedule.The results achieved include a comprehensive Concept of Operations as well as a full set of requirements for a future Main Battle Tank System. Led by SAAB AB, the consortium partners engaged in close collaboration with the participating Ministries of Defence (MoDs). This joint effort resulted in a consolidated and harmonized baseline, explicitly incorporating the needs of the participating MoDs, representing the future customers. In addition, under the leadership of Indra Sistemas S.A., the consortium carried out an extensive market survey. Numerous partners contributed their expertise to evaluate the availability, technological readiness and performance capabilities of relevant technologies and subsystems across the European defence market.

With all submitted deliverables formally approved by the European Commission, a strong foundation has been established to advance into the next stage of the MARTE project. This phase focuses design and architecture activities of the overall MBT system and its subsystems, with KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co.KG, Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH and Leonardo SPA taking the lead in driving these key activities.

The General Assembly, held in November 2025 in San Sebastián (Spain) and hosted by MARTE ARGE GbR, gathered all consortium members and key stakeholders at the project’s halfway point.

Beyond presenting the results achieved to date, the event offered insights into ongoing activities, ensured full alignment on the roadmap towards the targeted Preliminary Design Review, and thereby reaffirmed MARTE as one of the most consequential defence programs embedded in the EDF.

The achievements reached to date, the strong industrial collaboration across Europe, and the continued active engagement of the participating Ministries of Defence collectively position MARTE as a decisive strategic investment in Europe’s technological sovereignty and defence innovation.

DroneShield Expands C2 Interoperability Through Partnership with OpenWorks Engineering Optical Sensors

Tuesday, March 24th, 2026

Sydney, Australia – 24 March 2026DroneShield (ASX:DRO) today announced interoperability between DroneSentry-C2 command-and-control (C2) software, and optical sensing technologies from OpenWorks Engineering. The partnership strengthens DroneShield’s ability to unify multi-domain sensor inputs within a single operational C2 environment, delivering enhanced detection, tracking, and decision superiority for end users.

OpenWorks Engineering is a UK-based technology company specializing in advanced optical sensor systems and imaging solutions for defense, security, and industrial applications. With a heritage rooted in delivering modular, high-resolution optical sensing for challenging environments, OpenWorks remains focused on precision detection, identification, and continuous tracking of airborne objects.

Interoperability with OpenWorks Engineering optical sensors adds another high-value option to DroneShield’s ecosystem, enabling customers to enhance visual detection, tracking, and identification capabilities within a single, cohesive command-and-control environment.


Image: DroneShield’s DroneSentry sample configuration with OpenWorks Engineering optical sensor.

DroneSentry-C2 as the Operational Anchor

While additional sensors enhance coverage, operational advantage is achieved at the command-and-control layer. DroneSentry-C2 serves as the authoritative decision engine that combines and prioritizes inputs across RF, optical, and other supported modalities.

Within the DroneSentry-C2 platform, powered by its SensorFusionengine sits DroneShield’s proprietary DroneOptID, an AI-driven machine vision capability designed to deliver autonomous visual detection, validation, and tracking of drone threats using optical sensors such as OpenWorks. DroneOptID enhances the common operating picture by providing real-time visual confirmation once a drone is detected and cued by the broader sensor network. DroneOptID automatically slews the camera to the target, validates the threat, and maintains persistent tracking using advanced machine learning, without requiring manual or continuous operator input. DroneOptID also assists in assessing payload indicators, modifications, and countermeasure effectiveness, while securely storing video for post-event review and forensic analysis, strengthening layered airspace security across the DroneSentry-C2 ecosystem.

Rather than presenting operators with parallel systems or fragmented dashboards, DroneSentry-C2 provides a unified operational interface where sensor data is fused, contextualized, and prioritized in real time, with DroneSentry-C2 Enterprise enabling coordinated oversight across geographically dispersed and enterprise-scale deployments.

“Operators need clarity, not complexity,” said Angus Bean, DroneShield’s Chief Product Officer. “Expanding our ecosystem with additional optical sensing technologies from OpenWorks Engineering gives customers more options to tailor their deployments, while SensorFusionAI ensures all inputs are combined into a clear, operational picture.”

“Collaboration with DroneShield enhances channels through which intelligent and autonomous vision systems from OpenWorks can be deployed. We share DroneShield’s approach to modularity, creating configurable ecosystems of technology that integrate with end-users’ existing systems. We look forward to further strengthening our relationship with DroneShield throughout 2026,” stated James Cross, Chief Commercial Officer for OpenWorks.


Image: DroneShield demonstrating DroneSentry-C2 in Finland.

A Growing Marketplace for Airspace Security

DroneShield’s expanding ecosystem reflects a broader vision: creating a marketplace of interoperable technologies that empowers operators to configure, evolve, and scale their CUxS capabilities over time.

By prioritizing open architecture, interoperability, and AI-driven intelligence, DroneShield is positioning its platform as the foundation for layered, multi-sensor airspace security strategies, without constraining customers to a single hardware pathway.

This ecosystem model supports procurement flexibility, accelerates deployment timelines, and aligns with the realities faced by defense, security, and public safety organizations operating in rapidly changing threat environments.

Drones, Robots, Satellites: Rheinmetall Presents Itself at the XPONENTIAL Europe 2026

Monday, March 23rd, 2026

Rheinmetall AG will be participating in the specialised trade fair XPONENTIAL Europe 2026 in Düsseldorf from 24 to 26 March 2026. The event is one of the most recognized European trade fairs for autonomous systems, robotics and unmanned technologies. This year, for the first time, special attention is being paid to the topic of security and defence.

The Düsseldorf-based technology group is showcasing a wide range of unmanned solutions within the land, air, and space domains at the trade show. These include amongst others drones, satellites, robotic systems and applications for teleoperated driving via 5G mobile networks. Among the new products Rheinmetall is presenting at XPONENTIAL 2026 are:

Loitering Munition FV-014:
The FV-014 is a modern loitering munition system, specifically designed to meet the requirements of todays and tomorrow’s battlefield. As a portable reconnaissance and strike-drone, it combines reconnaissance capabilities with accurate impact strikes in a flexible solution, giving armed forces significant operational advantages from a distance. In the field, the FV-014 can first observe and analyse targets in order to strike precisely at the right moment. The operator remains involved in the decision-making process at all times. In this way, the system helps to minimize collateral damage, protect own forces, and engage at critical targets quickly, in a controlled manner, and effectively. The FV-014 is also a key component of Rheinmetall’s Reconnaissance and Strike Network (AWV). This network encompasses all necessary systems for reconnaissance and combat missions and combines coordinated strike capabilities with rapid responsiveness.

c-UAS Interceptor drone: Rheinmetall’s c-UAS Interceptor drone (RV-005) is a specialized “hard-kill” effector, designed to counter small unmanned aerial vehicles and is part of the company’s comprehensive drone defence toolbox. The system neutralizes enemy drones through a targeted physical collision or by means of a warhead, with modern AI technology enabling a precise approach even under the influence of radio jamming. The RV-005 can be integrated as an effector into any command-and-control system for drone defence. Threats can therefore be detected reliably, characterized and hence, physically neutralized at low cost, even within the framework of a “multi-layer defence.” Thanks to these capabilities, the drone is ideally suited for protecting critical infrastructure and sensitive airspace, such as airports or during major events.

SAR-Satellites (Synthetic Aperture Radar):
SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) satellites are modern reconnaissance systems that provide high-resolution radar images of the Earth’s surface regardless of the time of day or weather conditions. Using active radar signals, they gather detailed information even in dense clouds, fog, smoke, or complete darkness. For modern armed forces, this data forms an essential basis for real-time operational assessment, target detection and surveillance. Through the joint venture, Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions, a sovereign German satellite constellation is being established in Neuss on the Lower Rhine region, ensuring a secure and controlled flow of information. Space-based reconnaissance is considered a central component of the digital transformation of defence and national security.

Collaborative robot YARO Cobot:
The YARO Cobot was designed for environments where other robots fail. With advanced AI, a robust design, and customizable options, it is the ideal tool for complex tasks in the harshest conditions. The hard-coated aluminium frame ensures resistance to salt, fog and corrosion in harsh outdoor environments. IP67- and IP69-certified, it is fully dustproof and waterproof for reliable operation in wet, dusty environments. “Force Control” enables precise handling for difficult tasks, even under extreme conditions. Vibration absorption and corresponding sensors ensure precision in environments with strong vibrations. Custom sensor heads adapt the YARO Cobot for tasks such as chemical detection or spatial measurements. The robot operates reliably at temperatures ranging from -20°C to 50°C.

Operator’s stand and control centre for remote operations:
With its exhibit, Rheinmetall subsidiary MIRA GmbH showcases key elements of its teleoperation solution for use in public road traffic. The focus is on the driver’s console, from which a vehicle can be teleoperated and guided in real time. The workstation is designed so that all vehicle functions relevant to driving can be operated and controlled remotely. Via the screens, the “remote driver” receives high-resolution video streams from the vehicle cameras to continuously monitor traffic conditions and safely perform driving tasks. In addition, MIRA is presenting the Control Centre at the trade show as the central control and command unit of the entire system. This is where all information relevant to operations converges; where driving missions are monitored and coordinated; and where driving tasks are relayed to the respective Control Station. The interaction between the Control Centre and the driver’s console demonstrates how teleoperated vehicles can be controlled efficiently, safely, and in a scalable manner.

Rheinmetall – driver of the digital transformation of the armed forces
At XPONENTIAL, Rheinmetall is positioning itself as a leading international systems provider driving the digital transformation of armed forces and delivering innovative mobility solutions for civilian applications. In doing so, the company underscores its commitment to establishing unmanned technologies as a central element of modern defence and ensuring information superiority on the battlefield. As a global player, the Group is presenting ahead-looking solutions for networked operations in the coming decade during the trade show. In doing so, Rheinmetall is making a decisive contribution to national and international security in an ever-changing world. Visitors to XPONENTIAL Europe 2026 can learn about Rheinmetall’s extensive portfolio at booth C25 in hall 1.

Spectra Group (UK) Ltd Launches Final Production Version of GENSS Tactical Communications System at the Satellite Show

Monday, March 23rd, 2026

Spectra Group (UK) Ltd, specialists in delivering secure, reliable and resilient beyond line-of-sight communications for operations in denied and contested environments, formally launches the production version of GENSS at the Satellite Show (Stand 2840). GENSS is an Evergreen software-defined tactical communications system shaped by operational experience and designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK. It delivers adaptable, efficient voice and data connectivity for distributed forces, with a system architecture designed to support capability evolution as operational requirements and technologies change. First introduced as a concept at the Mobile Deployable Communications conference in London in 2024, the system has since undergone extensive development, testing and refinement in collaboration with specialist user groups to ensure it meets the demands of modern distributed operations. The system has already attracted interest from NATO-aligned users; more news to follow soon.

GENSS extends tactical communications beyond the traditional line-of-sight “bubble”, enabling secure voice and data connectivity across challenging operational environments. The system currently supports secure L-Band tactical satellite networking (L-TAC) and beyond-line-of-sight voice and data communications, while also enabling MANET network extension and bridging to allow mission systems such as ATAK to operate across dispersed units. By combining efficient bandwidth usage, adaptive waveform techniques and low-power transmission methods, GENSS enables resilient communications for mobile forces operating in contested or denied environments and is designed to reduce the probability of detection and interception through low-power transmission and adaptive waveform techniques, enhancing its security and operational effectiveness.

Built as a software-defined system with modular architecture, GENSS is designed to support continuous capability evolution through software development, new waveforms and system integrations. The system builds on Spectra’s heritage in tactical satellite communications, including the widely deployed and award-winning SlingShot system, which enables L-Band satellite access for existing radios. GENSS extends this approach by acting as a network extension and integration system, allowing voice and mission data from multiple tactical systems to be securely distributed across beyond-line-of-sight networks. It has been designed and developed through a collaborative effort of tactical communication experts, seasoned military specialists and top-tier British scientists and engineers.

GENSS, combined with other Spectra Group products, delivers a robust layered communications network to support mission-critical headquarters and uncrewed systems over the horizon. Being a modular, hardware-agnostic radio system by design, it has proven to be operationally adaptable, providing excellent interoperability through straightforward software reprogramming, allowing it to adapt quickly and easily to diverse user needs. GENSS is backwards compatible with SlingShot and supports efficient L-TAC access and network extension, ensuring easy integration with a wide range of existing tactical radios. GENSS is therefore a robust and agile solution for voice and data transmission across multiple operational environments. Simon Davies, Chief Executive at Spectra Group said,

“Since leaving the services, my focus has been to help develop communications technology that genuinely supports the needs of the soldier on the ground. SlingShot demonstrated how L-Band satellite services could extend the reach of existing radios. GENSS builds on those lessons as a software-defined communications system designed to extend tactical networks and evolve as operational requirements change. I am extremely proud to launch GENSS at the show and to already have a NATO customer in final negotiations for its purchase.”

Barretta Defense Technologies Releases White Paper Calling for Focus on Dismounted Soldier in Europe

Saturday, March 21st, 2026

Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A., founding member of the Beretta Defense Technologies (BDT) strategic alliance of Beretta Holding group companies, is launching a White Paper calling for greater consideration of the dismounted soldier in Europe’s defence policy and programming.

The paper, titled “the Enduring Importance of the Dismounted Soldier in Modern Conflict” was presented to Members of the European Parliament, national and EU defence representatives on 5 March. Taking stock of lessons from the war in Ukraine, the paper underlines that the human element remains central to operational effectiveness. To defend Europe, training and equipping soldiers effectively must be a priority.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Beretta Holding Vice-President and CEO of Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A., Dr Franco Gussalli Beretta, said “As warfare continues to evolve through advancing technologies, the soldier remains a vital and irreplaceable element of modern defence. In this context, innovation and the continuous enhancement of individual equipment are essential to strengthening the capabilities and effectiveness of today’s soldiers”.

Although investment in defence at European and national level is ramping up, several challenges remain.

Programmes like the European Defence Fund (EDF), Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), and the European Defence Industry Reinforcement through common Procurement Act (EDIRPA), the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP), and the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) have strengthened Europe’s ability to invest together in defence. However, too little of this funding is allocated to soldier-focused capabilities.

A new industrial mindset

The White Paper highlights that Europe’s small arms, ammunition and equipment markets remain fragmented, characterised by different national approaches to equipping soldiers. Many countries are still equipping their soldiers with outdated service weapons or relying on non-European products.

The rapidly changing defence and geopolitical landscape calls for a new industrial mindset to address the challenges to equipping soldiers effectively. This mindset should focus on common requirements, pragmatic solutions and European collaboration.The paper calls on European policymakers to make the dismounted soldier a strategic priority by:

• Investing in modern infantry equipment;

• Harmonising European standards for that equipment;

• Streamlining design and performance criteria;

• Reforming procurement;

• Encouraging industrial cooperation between member states.

Beretta urges faster innovation, better planning, and learning from current conflicts to ensure soldiers are ready to face current and future threats.

Next steps

The White Paper draws on expertise from across Beretta Defense Technologies, a predominantly European alliance of Beretta Holding companies. Each BDT company has a rich history and reputation for excellence in their field: from firearms and ammunition production to precision optics, clothing and accessories.

Through this alliance, Beretta is uniquely placed to offer scalable solutions, designed and manufactured in Europe.

The latest innovations from BDT include specialised anti-drone firearms and ammunition.

This launch is intended as a first step towards the wider goal of a credible and autonomous European defence posture. Beretta stands ready to support decision makers to learn the lessons of today’s conflicts, address market fragmentation, establish key standards and criteria, and facilitate industrial alliances.

About Beretta

Beretta (Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta SpA) is the oldest firearms manufacturer in the world. With roots in Northern Italy going back to 1526, the company remains under the leadership of the Beretta family, making it one of the world’s oldest family-owned and family-run businesses. Beretta is also a founding member of BDT (Beretta Defense Technologies), an alliance of Beretta Holding Group companies that supply leading armed forces and law enforcement agencies worldwide with firearms, ammunition, optics, electro-optics, clothing and accessories.

To access the white paper, visit here.

Milrem Robotics and PGZ Sign MoU to Strengthen Estonian–Polish Defence Industry Cooperation

Friday, March 20th, 2026

Milrem Robotics, the world’s leading developer of robotics and autonomous systems, and Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ), Poland’s largest defence industry group, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore potential areas of collaboration and bolster strategic defence relations between Estonia, Poland, and Central & Eastern Europe.

Under the agreement, Milrem Robotics and PGZ will work together to accelerate the development of advanced defence technologies by leveraging each other’s expertise, industrial capabilities, and technological resources. One focus area includes payload integration on unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), supporting the rapid adaptation of innovative systems to meet evolving operational requirements.  The cooperation will also explore integrating Milrem Robotics’ autonomous technologies into PGZ’s vehicles, further enhancing the capabilities of next-generation defence platforms.

The MoU also serves as a foundation for future detailed agreements covering research and development, production, deliveries, services, and overhauls.

“By combining Milrem Robotics’ leadership in autonomous ground systems with PGZ’s extensive manufacturing base and defence portfolio, we aim to foster innovation, enhance interoperability, and strengthen regional security capabilities,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.

Milrem Robotics Poland Managing Director Marcin Sobieraj added: “By joining forces with PGZ, we can accelerate the development and integration of advanced unmanned systems to better serve allied armed forces.”

Marcin Idzik, Vice President of PGZ added: “Collaboration with Milrem Robotics opens new opportunities for advancing innovative unmanned solutions within Poland’s defence ecosystem. Together, we aim to strengthen our industrial base and deliver cutting-edge capabilities to meet current and future defence challenges.”

The MoU reflects the shared commitment of both organisations to contribute to European defence innovation, industrial resilience, and closer cross-border cooperation.

UK Ministry of Defense Selects TrellisWare Technologies – Leading Waveform Developer To Deliver More Than 5,000 Radios

Friday, March 20th, 2026

The project will see the British Army deploying TrellisWare’s tactical radios utilizing the company’s industry-best TSM® and optional Katana™ NB waveforms, providing the Army with the latest and most advanced, resilient, and interoperable MANET (Mobile Ad Hoc Networking) systems available.
San Diego, CA, March 10, 2026 – TrellisWare Technologies, Inc., the global leader in resilient waveforms and interoperable tactical radios, today announced that the company, through its UK partner Blacktree Technologies, has been selected by the UK Ministry of Defense (MoD) to provide TrellisWare tactical radios.

The extensive evaluation and specific selection of TrellisWare’s radios and waveforms aligns perfectly with the emerging MoD waveform strategy and further demonstrates its concerted approach to affordably, yet best, modernize UK defense networks at the pace and level of scrutiny demanded by current global threats.

The technological advantages of the TrellisWare product suite, coupled with the fact that the solutions are mission-proven and fully interoperable with other NATO nations’ communications systems, played a significant role in the decision for the MoD to work with TrellisWare.

“We are honored to work with the Ministry of Defense and British Army to fortify their communications infrastructure and help ensure mission success going forward,” says Metin Bayram, CEO of TrellisWare Technologies.  “The strategic utilization of TrellisWare waveforms will provide the resiliency and extended coverage needed to maintain clear and consistent communications across the contested and congested spectrum environments they will surely encounter on the battlefields of today andtomorrow.”

The TrellisWare systems deliver voice, data and position location information via unique Barrage™ Relay Networking, providing the ability to scale to many hundreds of nodes in a single Radio Frequency channel, allowing extremely efficient use of very limited spectrum.  This has the potential to give many more individual users the benefit of access to battlefield situational services versus other solutions offered in the tactical communications market today.