BAE, General Dynamics, Airbus to develop tactical hotspot for British Army

BAE Systems, Airbus, and General Dynamics (GD) have partnered to develop the Strike Tactical Hotspot concept demonstrator, a new network technology for the British Army. Tactical Hotspot is a compact mobile digital communications set that can be deployed securely in an armored vehicle to enable front-line troops to communicate securely with their command headquarters. When fitted to an adapted, Panther armored combat vehicle with self-erecting radio masts, the Hotspot can provide secure connectivity over several miles. It can maneuver alongside the British Army's medium strike brigade for continuous secure communications on the move. Under a contract worth $1.62 million, BAE will supply two experimental Strike Tactical Hotspots to the British Army.