Communications tool connects radio, IP networks

• By Mark Pomerleau
• Mar 08, 2016

The Marines are nearing completion of development for the Secure Communications Controller, a new type of hardware that facilitates rapid and secure communications across multiple networks for emergency management in joint environments or disaster response missions.

With its own software and weighing only 15 pounds, SCC synchronizes communication equipment without the need for encryption so that  tactical radios, cellular networks, land mobile radios and voice-over-Internet protocols can be used interchangeably over the same network, easing communication between governmental and non-governmental agencies.   

“Previously, Marines were limited in their ability to communicate between disparate communications systems, but with the SCC, a Marine using a high-frequency radio will be able to communicate with a first responder or coalition ally on a totally different comm device seamlessly,” said Basil Moncrief, with the Marine Air Ground Task Force-Command and Control Systems.

SCC was developed with assistance from the Small Business Innovation Research program, which funds small businesses developing innovative technologies.

SCC is being tested during exercises in Pohang, South Korea, through mid-March.