Hanwha Systems to develop NATO-compliant secure radio network

Hanwha Group logo [HANWHA]

Hanwha Systems was selected by the state arms procurement agency to develop a Korean version of Link-22, a secure digital radio link system used by North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members to share tactical data, a company press release said Tuesday.

Under the contract with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), worth 209.5 billion won ($161.6 million), Hanwha is expected to develop a joint maritime tactical data link system that shares information on targets detected by warships, submarines and aircraft in real time.

Hanwha Systems will develop data processing and network control software and install encryption devices, modems and communication equipment that can be integrated with existing naval combat systems or land command stations.

According to the press release, Hanwha Systems plans to begin development of 16 types of systems tailored for frigates, destroyers, submarines and support vessels in 2023 and complete mass production by 2029.

“Through our unique position in the field of tactical data links at home and abroad, we will maximize the Navy’s operational capabilities and prove the reliability and excellent performance of the Korean defense industry,” Hanwha Systems CEO Eoh Sung-chul was quoted as saying in the press release.

Link 22 is a NATO secure radio system that provides beyond line-of-sight communications and enables information exchange between air, surface, subsurface and ground-based tactical data systems. It is used for the exchange of tactical data among the military units of the participating nations.

Hanwha Systems is the developer of a combat management system (CMS) used by Navy ships to integrate the operation of sensors, weapons, communications and a command system.

The company is also currently involved in the development of a joint tactical data link system (JTDLS) that shares real-time situational information and disseminates command and control information.

JTDLS is intended to connect strategic and tactical systems using satellites and other wireless networks, allowing fighter jets, naval vessels and ground forces to share information from combat theaters.

BY MICHAEL LEE [lee.junhyuk@joongang.co.kr]