What Radios Do The Military Use?

In the military, staying connected through reliable communications is critical. Sometimes, it could be the difference between life and death. Two-way radios offer a line of communication over a range of distances, over difficult terrain and in hugely challenging environments, and for this reason are the popular choice with militaries worldwide.

Military communications can be hugely complex and involve several signals and frequencies, which means that the software and technology required is highly advanced. Radios are required as these frequencies are encrypted to provide higher security levels, unlike a mobile device which could be easily interfered with. Much of the communications between military personnel are highly classified, containing commands, instructions and information that must be protected.

As well as this, militaries operate in various locations including the desert, the ocean, and in complex fields such as towns and cities, meaning that militaries all over the globe opt for various radio systems, mostly depending on requirements such as required security level, contextual environment, and the distance the communications will have to travel. A combination of these requirements mean that different military personnel will select different models to ensure that their communications are as clear as possible. In challenging environments and highly time-critical situations, military personnel need to be able to rely upon their radio devices, so choosing the correct model is vital.

What makes a radio suitable for use in the military?

Radio systems have a range of features and specifications to enable users to select the model most fitting for their requirements. For example, if the military require a radio system that will hold up in tough terrain, many choose high frequency radio options. For those that demand a higher level of security, P25 radios are often favored for their quality encryption and great security features. Militaries also use satellite communications to cover long distances, demonstrating the scope of military radio communications, and reinstating that military radio types are not a “one size fits all” requirement.

Hundreds of radio models and types are used by the military, however, largely, one of the most popular radio systems is the previously mentioned P25. For mission critical operations, the industry leader – Motorola, often provides the model of choice, the APX P25.

The P25 was developed by the Association of Public-Safety Communication Officials-International (APCO) in the USA. P25, representing “Project 25”, was designed to bring mission-led personnel an affordable, easy to use two-way radio solution, and refers to a standard devised for secure radio communications in North America.  The model is now used globally for its supreme quality and reliable nature by public service personnel, emergency services, and of course, the military.

APX P25 – Specifications 

Offering high quality performance and two-way functionality, the APX P25 are hugely versatile, resilient, and durable models. The P25 describes a family of radios, available in VHF, UHF and 700-800Mhz, offering flexibility for all practicalities.

What are the features of the APX 25 radios?

Many of the industry-leading features and amenities of the P25 radios include:

• Compact design
• Color display
• Multi-function knob
• Dual microphones
• AMBE vocoder
• Intelligent lighting
• Radio profiles
• Text messaging
• Voice announcement
• Over-the-air programming
• Extended range

Another key selling point of the APX 25 series radios is their interoperability capabilities. This feature means that the military can communicate internally and externally, with the emergency services, for example. This interoperability allows personnel to remain connected with each other through all situations, which of course, is a highly attractive and necessary prospect. Furthermore, to enhance ease of use, the P25 models are designed with a large interface and lighting amenities despite the models’ compact nature.

This intelligent lighting feature allows communication with no sound at all in compromising situations, with various colors alluding to different situations. For example, a green light could indicate mission success, or an orange light to a compromising situation of some sort, providing informative alerts at a glance and in silence. These radios are also able to be programmed autonomously, meaning any potential issues in the field can be rectified remotely – fore fronting the safety of personnel. These features demonstrate the smart technology and advanced design of these models and their suitability for military use.

The silent communication capabilities don’t just include the intelligent lighting features, with integrated text messaging technology also featured. This offers the freedom to communicate in situations that require absolute silence, providing the ability to communicate discreetly.

Overall, the advanced technology and multiple smart features that the P25 models possess directly correlate with the requirements of military communication, and for this reason it is clear why it is a popular choice.

MOTORBO Radio Solutions

Aside from the widely popular P25, Motorola offers a wide range of military grade two-way radios, including the MOTORBO R5, R7, DM4000e series, SLR5500 and SLR8000. Each of these are popular military radio choices – let’s dig into why.

MOTOTRBO R5

Designed to keep teams connected seamlessly in even the most demanding environments, the MOTOTRBO R5 delivers exceptional voice clarity, extended battery life and unmatched reliability.

• Loud, Clear Audio: The R5’s superior audio quality helps the message get through first time, regardless of background noise.
• Optimised Controls: Intuitive controls make the R5 easy to use with minimal training.
• Long Talk Time: Despite its small and light batteries, the MOTOTRBO™ R5 is packed with enough power for up to 32 hours runtime.
• Connect & Track: A built-in GNSS receiver allows the R5 to be located and tracked in real-time.
• Built To Last: Designed to withstand the knocks and drops of the workplace, the R5 is durable, reliable and resilient.

MOTOTRBO R7

The MOTOTRBO R7 is built to enable mission-critical communications in every setting. Its IP68 rating and rugged design protects from internal dust damage and provides watertight protection. This makes the R7 the ideal choice to ensure clear communications within military settings and other potentially dangerous industry environments like construction, oil and gas, and more.

Features include:

• Available in full display/keypad and no display/keypad options
• 1000 channels in FKP and 64 channels in NKP
• Large display (2.4 in. 320 x 240 px.)
• Weatherproof IP 58 rated
• Intrinsic safe TIA-4950 option available
• Intelligent audio
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS option
• Long lasting battery
• Wide range of accessories

MOTOTRBO DM4000e series

The DM4000e series is designed for the skilled professional who refuses to compromise. With high-performance integrated voice and data, and advanced features for efficient operation, these next-generation radios deliver complete connectivity for military use.

The MOTOTRBO DM4000e series is made up of four main models, the DM4600e, DM4601e, DM4400e and DM4401e. Each model offers different levels of functionality, including numeric or alphanumeric screens, GNSS technology, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.  

Features include:

• Integrated Wi-Fi
• Over-the-air software updates
• Bluetooth® 4.0
• Indoor location tracking
• Multi-constellation Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) for increased location accuracy

MOTOTRBO SLR5500

In some military contexts, a direct radio-to-radio connection is not sufficient – particularly when operators are working at extended distances. In these situations, a two-way radio repeater can help to extend the useable range of these devices and keep communications clear and instant.

The MOTOTRBO SLR5500 is a two-way-radio repeater designed to deliver the highest levels of voice and data communication, ensuring seamless coverage wherever your operations take place. Designed for minimal power consumption, the SLR 5500 offers a low-cost option for professional two-way radio systems.

Features include:

• Operates either in analogue or digital mode
• Clear LED indicators on front panel indicate operating mode
• TX/RX status per slot
• Rack or wall-mount
• Integrated power supply
• Interface for battery back-up and charge
• Repeater diagnostics and control
• Digital Conventional, IP Site Connect, Capacity Plus, Linked Capacity Plus, Connect Plus, Analog Conventional, MPT 1327 compatible
• Application developers kit (to enable 3rd parties to develop applications which interface to the repeater)

MOTOTRBO SLR8000

Chosen for its high performance and high delivery capabilities whilst maintaining a low price-point, the MOTORBO SLR8000 is another two-way radio repeater of choice for the military.

With innovative, integrated software and unparalleled versatility, this repeater provides the military with the ability to communicate clearly and concisely, even in the most challenging environments.

Features include:

• IP interface
• One-box installation
• Next generation design
• Continuous 100W transmit power
• Fully customizable
• Low power consumption
• VHF 136-174 MHz
• UHF 400-470 MHz
• 64 channel capacity
• 1-100W output power

Military grade two-way radio solutions

As a friendly Motorola Solutions vendor, our group here at Minerva prides itself on our ability to consistently exceed customer requirements through our expertise and experience.

If your business is interested in discovering the benefits of the any of the models we’ve discussed here, they are all available for purchase at Minerva. Get in touch with one of our knowledgeable customer service representatives for more information, pricing costs and more.