General Dynamics to integrate CBRN device in Army radios

Published 12 September 2011

General Dynamics C4 Systems announced last week that it will work with U.S. Army researchers to install wireless-networking chips on radios that can also detect the presence of dangerous chemicals on the battlefield

General Dynamics C4 Systems announced last week that it will work with U.S. Army researchers to install wireless-networking chips on radios that can also detect the presence of dangerous chemicals on the battlefield.

The plan comes as part of the Army’s efforts to develop advanced infantry radios capable of rapid detection and warning of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. The Army hopes that the radios will also be capable of mapping the hazards to provide situational awareness and transmit the data to those on the battlefield as well as commanders.

The company’s chips will be embedded in the Army’s AN/PRC-154 Rifleman radio system.

Army Research Development and Engineering Contracting Center officials will negotiate a contract with General Dynamics for its Joint Warning and Reporting Network (JWARN) Component Interface Device (JCID)-on-a-Chip (JoaC).

Army officials say that General Dynamics is the only firm capable of integrating the chips into the radio in eight months.