RAF to use Tait secure radio equipment — Exporter Magazine

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is to use innovative communication technology designed and developed by Tait Communications to help keep its airfields safe.

Tait Communicationshas been awarded a contract by Petards Group (Petards) to provide radio equipment and services to be used by the RAF at bases across the UK.

The RAF is replacing its entire Secure Management Radio Equipment (SMRE) capability, which allows Air Traffic Control to direct the safe movement of vehicles and personnel on the airfield manoeuvring area. 

It is also used to provide direct communication between Air Traffic Control and those in airfield support roles such as guards, medical personnel, re-fuelling and fire crews.

The contract, which includes 5000 secure digital portable radios and over 1500 mobiles – deployed in vehicles, as fixed stations and man portable tactical deployable radios – alongside secure digital infrastructure, will be delivered over the next 15 months.

The project will be managed through Tait Communication’s Europe-Middle East-Africa organisation, providing system build configuration, integration and deployment services direct to Petards.

“Safety and professionalism are core values for Ministry of Defence, and reliable communication plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of day-to-day operations for the National Defence”, says Hans van der Linde, Managing Director, Tait Europe, Middle East and Africa.

“Tait is proud to be a member of Petards’ team in providing a critical communication solution that supports Royal Air Force in its mission to defend the UK and its interests, strengthen international peace and stability and be a force for good in the world.”