New communication system unveiled

Safran has introduced SAFNET, a new tactical communication system, during the National Infantry Days in Draguignan. Developed over nearly a decade, SAFNET is a digital radio designed for dismounted combatants, offering a data transfer rate of up to 2 Mb/s and a range of up to 2 km.

Performance considerations

Industry experts note that obstacles like masks can reduce SAFNET's effective range to 500 or 600 meters. The system is intended to meet modern military needs, including secure communication in the face of jamming and other interference.

Technical features

SAFNET includes an IP gateway to integrate 4G/5G and satellite networks, enabling it to act as an automatic relay in a mesh network. This allows the creation of "secure bubbles" within military units and supports geolocation using multi-constellation GNSS.

Power and design

The device is compact, with a height of 7 cm, and uses a MBITR battery that consumes less than 4 W. This provides up to 24 hours of autonomy, reducing the need for frequent battery changes. A portable version, called Manpack, is currently under development.

French Army procurement program

The French Army is pursuing a program to acquire off-the-shelf radios for dismounted combatants, launched with a tender in January. Known as RCD, this program complements the CONTACT initiative and is expected to deliver up to 14,000 individual radios and 1,000 vehicle radios by 2031.

Safran's involvement

Safran, a declared candidate for the RCD program, has completed selection tests with the Direction générale de l'armement (DGA). The company could be selected by the end of the year, with the first 2,500 units of SAFNET expected in the fourth quarter of 2027.

Collaboration with Bittium

Safran has signed a two-year cooperation agreement with Bittium, focusing on tactical communications for the French armed forces. SAFNET is intended for the first echelons of military units, while Bittium's systems are used at the level of section leaders and beyond.

Interoperability and testing

Interoperability between SAFNET and Bittium's Tough SDR radio has been achieved. Bittium's systems, used in several European countries, have been evaluated by the 8th Marine Infantry Parachute Regiment during the SJO 25 exercise and assigned to the 13th Half-Brigade of the Foreign Legion and special forces.