Portugal Equips Light Attack Aircraft with Advanced Airborne SDR Systems
June 25, 2025
The Portuguese Air Force will become the first user of the NATO-standard A-29N Super Tucano light attack aircraft, with initial deliveries scheduled for this year. The aircraft will be equipped with advanced airborne software-defined radios (SDRs) designed for secure and reliable communication in complex operational environments.
These SDRs operate over a frequency range of 30 to 512 MHz and support data rates from 110 to 2100 kbps. Transmit power ranges from 20 to 40 W, with receiver sensitivity between -108 and -103 dBm. The systems operate from a 28 V power supply.
The radios support real-time transfer of voice, data, and navigation information across dispersed units, providing enhanced situational awareness and interoperability in network-centric operations. Integrated features include frequency hopping, encryption for tactical communications, and 8.33 kHz channel spacing for air traffic control compatibility. Secure voice and data communication capabilities are enabled by embedded algorithms offering COMSEC and TRANSEC functions, along with black key loading.
Up to two SDR transceivers can be installed per aircraft, housed in compact enclosures conforming to ARC-164 form factors, and are interoperable with ground and airborne assets.