L3 Micreo has developed a next-generation wideband radio frequency (RF) solution for defence communications applications.
Developed and produced in-house by the company, the modular optical link converts broadband RF signals for transmission across a fibre-optic link. With an instantaneous frequency range of 10 MHz to 40 GHz, the modular optical link offers the flattest gain response available on the market for unsurpassed performance.
L3 Micreo general manager Sarah Earey said the offering is the company's first industrial-grade product.
“The next-generation capabilities provided by our new optical link give our war fighters a combat advantage to communicate over greater distances with minimal loss in all conditions,” she said
“We expect this versatile solution to be very successful in international markets, supporting organisations operating antenna and radar ranges, as well as large military platforms across the land and littoral domains.”
The new photonic solution can be used across various defence domains and platforms, including antenna remoting stations and test ranges, electronic warfare, satellite communications and radar ranges that commonly require low-loss, long-distance RF links in place of long coaxial cables.
CTO Ashley Robinson said there are numerous benefits to transmitting RF over fibre-optic links in military applications.
“Performance is enhanced with lower loss, lower interference and low risk of interception, and safety is improved as the wide bandwidth enables greater distances between personnel and equipment, and allows all signals to be carried on one link,” he said.
Located in Brisbane, L3 Micreo, part of L3’s newly formed Intelligence & Mission Systems sector within the Sensor Systems business segment, was formed when Micreo was acquired by L3 in September 2016.