Interoperability tests for the ESSOR-HDR waveform implemented in European military radios were recently conducted at the RADMOR headquarters in Gdynia. The tests, which involved software-defined radios from Poland, Finland, France, Germany, and Italy, were a resounding success. RADMOR utilized a platform developed as part of the national GUARANA radio communication system.
Since early October, RADMOR, a member of the WB GROUP, has been conducting additional laboratory tests to assess the interoperability of Polish and foreign radios. These tests are part of the ESSOR (European Secure Software-defined Radio) Operational Capability 1 (EOC1) project. The results confirmed seamless cooperation among all platforms tested with the ESSOR-HDR (High Data Rate) waveform.
Radios developed by the Polish RADMOR company (based on the national GUARANA radio communication system), Finnish Bittium Wireless, Italian Leonardo, French Thales SIX GTS France, and German Rohde & Schwarz (which joined the project in 2020) were used for the tests.
The tests demonstrated the versatility of the ESSOR-HDR solution and its potential for deployment on radio platforms from other allied countries. The functionality of the ESSOR HDR waveform was also highlighted, proving its ability to establish MANET networks, secure transmissions, and facilitate “push-to-talk” voice communication in complex network configurations. Furthermore, the system’s efficiency in radio silence, fast data transmission, and its capacity to effectively share the available frequency spectrum were confirmed.
Through participation in the subsequent phases of the ESSOR project, the Ministry of National Defence (MON) and the Polish Armed Forces have gained access to, and ownership of, the latest advancements in military radio communication technologies designed for coalition forces. The next phase will focus on the development of new waveforms, including the narrowband NBWF waveform, to further enhance NATO forces’ interoperability.
The successful completion of the tests provided an opportunity for stakeholders to review the program’s outcomes. To mark this achievement, RADMOR hosted the ESSOR VIP DAY at its Gdynia headquarters on November 19, 2024. The event featured a special demonstration of the interoperability and functionality of the ESSOR HDR waveform, showcasing the program’s progress.
The event was attended by senior representatives from the Organization for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), the European Commission, the European Defense Agency (EDA), a4ESSOR company, and the defense ministries of the countries financing and overseeing the project.
During ESSOR VIP DAY, the ESSOR HDR waveform’s functionality was demonstrated, proving its ability to function as a coalition waveform. It enables land forces from different countries to communicate during joint military operations, despite the diverse SDR radio platforms they use.
Thanks to decisions made in 2007 and their continued implementation, Poland has been actively involved in all phases of the ESSOR program. RADMOR, as Poland’s representative, plays a key role as the national champion and co-shareholder of the international a4ESSOR company.
Involvement in this initiative has significantly contributed to the development of expertise and enhanced knowledge in software-defined radio (SDR) technology and related standards. This, in turn, has driven the success of both national and international projects.