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Combat Net Radio
CNR


The CNR is a single-channel voice and data radio that is part of a holistic effort to phase out legacy Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS) radios across all service components.

Description

The CNR program is one part of the SINCGARS modernization strategy that encompasses fielding of HMS Manpack and Leader tactical data radios and modernization of cryptographic devices. The CNR effort supports National Security Agency and Department of Defense cryptographic modernization goals and the Army’s unified network strategy by providing assured command and control voice, and limited Fires and Air Defense data in environments where access to the Integrated Tactical Network (ITN) is degraded, enabling multiple communications options for commanders. The radio will be available on both mounted and dismounted missions.

The CNR will replace the RT-1523 series legacy radios. It will also continue to support the SINCGARS waveform and its associated future upgrades.

The CNR maintains the SINCGARS ability to provide very high frequency (VHF) communication capability, providing both voice and data handling capability in support of command-and-control operations. CNR-enabled communications will be used for voice transmission of command and control between surface and airborne command and control assets but will also be used to transmit and receive secure data, including position location information within a network via radio-based situational awareness and will function as a digital data radio.

CNR development is part of two Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts, with an initial delivery order in March 2022. The contract includes a five-year base and an additional five-year option. An initial delivery was placed at time of contract award for more than 2,200 radio assets, which includes those designated for first article test and to satisfy the required minimum government purchase

Capabilities

  • CNR will operate in the VHF band and can be used in either single channel or frequency hopping configurations.
  • Vendors are considering new-frequency hopping capabilities and cryptographic modernization that includes Tactical Secure Voice Cryptographic Interoperability Specification (TSVCIS) and Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 256
  • Software programmable to accept future updates. It will provide multipath diversity at the tactical edge.

Following first article test completion of and NSA certification, the Army will field to its first CNR equipped unit in 4QFY24/1QFY25, with final delivery in the 2030 timeframe.

The Combat Net Radio is a single-channel voice and data radio that is part of a holistic effort to phase out legacy Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS) radios across all service components.