Rohde & Schwarz Provides External Communications Systems for RAN

PARIS/CANBERRA: Rohde & Schwarz successfully delivered the second external communications system for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) auxiliary oiler and replenishment ships (AOR). Under a contract with Navantia, Rohde & Schwarz provides line of sight and beyond line of sight communication capabilities for RAN’s HMAS Supply and HMAS Stalwart.

The systems consist of R&S M3SR software defined radios (R&S Series4100 HF and R&S Series4400 VHF/UHF). All HF transceivers and receivers are HF wideband ready for future data communications. System racks were delivered to Navantia´s shipyard in Ferrol, Spain, for integration and testing onboard the ships.

Managing Director of Rohde & Schwarz (Australia), Gareth Evans, said: “Rohde & Schwarz (Australia) is increasing its presence in the RAN fleet with this contract.

“We are providing integrated communications systems for six Cape-class patrol boats to add to the extant external communications for Hobart-class destroyers and communications systems onboard HMAS Choules, with capability sustainment available from our Australian engineering facility.”

“We are very proud to have our equipment deployed in HMA Ships Supply and Stalwart providing a future-ready capability on time and on budget. Rohde & Schwarz has provided more than 40 navies with state-of-the-art communications technology.”

HMAS Supply has undergone sea trials in August, and is set to enter service with RAN early next year. HMAS Stalwart is planned to enter service with the RAN fleet in 2022 and is currently being fitting out. shp/aaa/mgm (PHOTO: Rohde & Schwarz)