Beechcraft’s AT-6 light attack jet is the first fixed-wing aircraft to perform air to ground communications using the Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System Situational Awareness (SINCGARS SA) Waveform capability.
(Beechcraft’s AT-6 light attack jet. Photo, courtesy of Beechcraft.)
SINCGARS SA is a software-controlled high frequency radio that provides digital communication and global positioning system services in both a fixed and mobile configuration. In August, the U.S. Air Force Air National Guard and Georgia Tech Research Institute performed simulated combat missions where pilots in an AT-6 were able to use the aircraft’s dual ARC-210 Warrior radios to communicate with ground forces carrying PRC-148, PRC-152 and PRC-117 radios.
“During the demonstration, the AT-6 successfully transmitted and received tactical audio and dynamic position locations with fielded combat ground radios,” said Russ Bartlett, president of Beechcraft’s defense division.
Beechcraft is looking to use the SA Waveform to increase the ability of the U.S. military to enhance communication between airborne pilots and ground forces.