Introduction
The Comtech Multipath Radio (MPR) sets a new standard for resilient and reliable communications by combining cutting-edge multipath mitigation technology with seamless compatibility across a wide variety of antennas. Designed to operate in some of the most demanding environments, Comtech’s MPR delivers high performance connectivity up to 210 Mbps whether in line-of-sight (LOS), obstructed-line-of-sight (OLOS), or beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) scenarios – making it uniquely suited for applications requiring continuous, mission-critical communications.
The Great Lakes Live Test
In 2023, Comtech entered into a Department of Defense Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to explore and validate a multitude of use cases, multi-mission scenarios, and proof of concepts, supporting BLOS resilient communications for the littoral environment. Extensive trials with unmanned surface vessels (USVs) have validated the MPR’s robust performance in challenging maritime operational conditions. Rigorously vetted in collaboration with military stakeholders at the Silent Swarm exercise, the system accomplished a beyond-line-of-sight link over 70 miles, from a shore site to an on-the-move* (OTM) USV without using satellite, which is a first for the DoD.
The MPR test was conducted near Alpena, Michigan, with the shore terminal set up at Thompson State Park, approximately 72 miles away. The setup featured an MPR variant, with a 1-meter carbon fiber antenna mounted on a motorized tracking pedestal, all packed into portable transit cases for rapid deployment in under 20 minutes. The USV was equipped with the MPR OTM set-up powered by BATS Wireless and Spectra Group. The team successfully delivered 30Mbps data throughput in both directions, with ultra-low latency (<7ms) providing continuous real-time video transmission, and mission control capabilities. These test results show a great level of promise for the future of USVs that requires a longer range in support of multi domain operations. This MPR innovation is a game-changer for Command and Control (C2) operations, ensuring seamless communication even in contested environments where satellites may be unavailable.
The test also demonstrated that Comtech’s MPR platform can overcome the limitations of traditional LOS microwave systems, offering extended BLOS connectivity from 1 nautical mile up to over 100 nautical miles. Unlike satellite communications, this terrestrial solution operates at industry leading speeds, providing reliable, jam-resistant, and cost-effective data transmission without the need for bandwidth leasing.
Lightweight, Power-Efficient, and Mission-Ready
The MPR OTM* weighs less than 50 lbs., while the shore terminal weighs 80 lbs., making both systems highly mobile. They can be powered by 24VDC batteries or 120/240VAC, with a total power consumption of 320W.
This breakthrough paves the way for next-generation, resilient military communications, ensuring reliable connectivity in denied or degraded environments. As joint forces and partners modernize their operations, Comtech’s Multipath Radio platform is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of secure, high-speed mission critical communications.
Looking Ahead
Comtech MPR is gearing up for expanded testing in 2025. Building on the successes of last year’s exercise, this year’s advanced exercise aims to push the limits of endurance, resiliency, range, and error-free communication, with the goal of proving a long-rage terrestrial alternative to satellite communications in denied environments. This year, Comtech will partner with Chance Maritime to outfit the MPR radio onto a long-endurance USV capable of operating for extended durations at sea. This USV features modular payload bays, a large aft area for launching or towing equipment, and stabilization systems to support data collection in higher sea states. These capabilities make it an ideal platform for showcasing the over-the-horizon and BLOS communication applications.
In addition to long-range USV testing, the MPR will also be integrated onto an airborne unmanned system to evaluate performance across multiple domains. These upcoming exercises provide a valuable opportunity to explore use cases aligned with distributed maritime operations and the expanding role of autonomous systems in joint force missions. Previous tests faced range limitations due to platform restrictions or power constraints, but these new scenarios offer the chance to fully exploit the MPR’s capabilities.
The MPR continues to demonstrate its value in denied and degraded environments, offering high-bandwidth command and control communications where traditional Ultra-High-Frequency (UHF) and Very-High-Frequency (VHF) systems fall short. With recent testing and validating its low probability of intercept, high resiliency, and long-range performance, the next phase will focus on pushing those limits even further.
Comtech’s Defense Solutions
Comtech’s portfolio of defense and security technologies, including the company’s Multipath Radio platform, is uniquely positioned to deliver capabilities that will enhance Combined Joint All Domain Command and Control (CJADC2) operations. The company has extensive experience developing and deploying customized, interoperable, robust, and resilient communications systems for all branches of the DOD and coalition forces. Comtech’s expansive portfolio of defense and security technologies is designed to continuously evolve over time to meet emerging Command, Control, Computers, Communications, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) use cases and enhance mission effectiveness in future all domain command and control operations.
Comtech’s Multipath Radio platform meets the CJADC2 communication needs. Contact a Comtech representative at contact us, to discuss how Comtech’s MPR platform can increase the efficiency and effectiveness of your mission.
*On the move powered by Spectra Group/Bats Wireless Antenna
Contact us now, to discuss how Comtech’s MPR platform can increase the efficiency and effectiveness of your mission.
