Bittium and Nokia have successfully demonstrated a hybrid tactical communication system designed for the Finnish Defence Forces, combining advanced software-defined radios with secure 4G/5G mobile technology. The joint solution is intended to modernize battlefield communications by integrating legacy tactical systems with cutting-edge mobile networks, enabling seamless real-time voice, data, and video transfer across diverse operational scenarios.
The demonstration showcased a fully functional hybrid network featuring Bittium’s Tactical Wireless IP Network (TAC WIN) and Tough SDR radios for vehicles and soldiers. These systems were integrated with Nokia’s military-grade 4G/5G “bubbles,” enabled by its Banshee Mobile Radio (BMR) and portable Banshee Tactical Radio (BTR). These units, including those worn in a backpack by a soldier, provided mobile connectivity for devices like the Bittium Tough Mobile 2 smartphone, supporting situational awareness apps and high-quality voice services via Bittium’s Tough VoIP system.
Use cases tested included uninterrupted voice communication across various terminals, live video transmission, and real-time data sharing for situational awareness — all demonstrating the network’s flexibility in complex field environments. The collaboration underscores the growing importance of hybrid solutions that bridge traditional and emerging technologies.
According to Nokia’s Head of Space and Defense, Giuseppe Targia, the joint system marks a breakthrough in secure, high-speed, mission-critical communications. Bittium’s Tommi Kangas highlighted the system’s robustness and its ability to integrate with other communication platforms, enhancing operational command capabilities.
This development comes amid a broader push across Europe to enhance defense readiness. At the Mobile World Congress, Nokia emphasized its increased focus on defense, with other recent Nordic trials including long-range remote vehicle control via 5G and international 5G SA slice handovers. Telenor has also entered the defense sector with HF communication solutions resilient to satellite or GPS outages.
