STANAG 4538 implementation and field testing lessons learned

Harris Corporation has incorporated its implementation of the STANAG 4538 automated radio control system (ARCS) protocols into its RF-5800H and AN/PRC-150(C) manpack radio products, and is now offering this capability as a standard feature of these radios. In developing this implementation, Harris has developed extensive experience in use of these protocols under a variety of operating conditions. The paper reports Harris´s experiences in its implementation and testing activities, providing: an overview of measured performance of the STANAG 4538 protocols under a variety of operating scenarios; observations concerning the impact of the STANAG 4538 protocols on usability and operational effectiveness of tactical communications; proposed changes to the protocols arising from Harris experiences, with technical and operational rationales.