The German Federal Parliament has approved the purchase of 913 additional portable AN/PRC-117G radios for the country’s armed forces.
The first 25 million euro contract will concluded with the US government with LRHarris as the main contractor.
German Armed Forces intend to purchase 370 radios initially. Another 543 will be bought between 2021 to 2024. In addition, further contracts for necessary accessories for the equipment are to be concluded between now and 2024. As explained, the radios and equipment will be ordered in 25 million euro increments up to a total contract value of 91 million euro.
The AN/PRC-117G and corresponding previous versions have been in service with the German Armed Forces for ten years. The systems use tactical satellite communication links and terrestrial radio links to provide soldiers access to encrypted communication with NATO allies. Germany currently has 540 devices in its inventory.
The systems are also used for the VJTFVery High Readiness Joint Task Force 2023, the rapidly deployable rapid reaction force, also known as NATO Spearhead. German Armed Forces personnel also use the radios in Puma, Fennek and Enok infantry fighting vehicles as well as on the German Navy’s new F125 frigates.
According to L3Harris, the AN/PRC-117G features NINE Suite B encryption, allowing sovereign nations to securely interoperate with US, NATO and regional tactical partners.
