The UK Armed Forces are set to experience improved connectivity on the battlefield, thanks to a massive £89 million contract award
This advancement aims to bolster communication between military personnel deployed in combat zones and their allies.
Aligned with the government’s priority to stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities, this five-year contract has been granted to BAE Systems.
Innovative network architecture for UK armed forces
The company will be responsible for designing and manufacturing a deployable tactical Wide Area Network (WAN) called ‘TRINITY,’ a cutting-edge battlefield internet capability for the UK Armed Forces.
The newly named Design and Systems Integration Delivery (DSID) contract enhances battlefield connectivity and supports creating 60 jobs in Dorset as part of the government’s economic growth strategy. Additionally, it promises to foster skills development across the supply chain and BAE Systems’ partners.
In collaboration with esteemed partners like L3 Harris, KBR, and PA Consulting, BAE Systems will leverage its expertise in defence communications systems to create, deliver, and deploy an unparalleled network capability for the UK Armed Forces.
Robust and resilient ‘TRINITY’ network
The innovative ‘TRINITY’ network, composed of interconnected nodes, offers exceptional resilience. In case of damage to specific nodes during warfare, the web will autonomously re-route data transmission to maintain optimal communication speed and information flow, ensuring its effectiveness and reliability.
Enabling swift decision-making in the battlespace
Replacing the retiring Falcon network by 2026, ‘TRINITY’ is poised to revolutionise how UK Armed Forces interact with their allies. This enhanced connectivity will empower them to swiftly exchange critical information and intelligence as a single nation and as part of international coalitions.
Minister for the Armed Forces, James Heappey, emphasised the importance of cutting-edge communications capabilities for personnel in evolving operational environments, underscoring the collaboration with British industry to strengthen alliances.
The investment will support research and development
The £89 million investment will primarily support the research and development phase of the project, with ‘TRINITY’ expected to be operational from December 2025.
David Armstrong, Group Managing Director at BAE Systems’ Digital Intelligence business, highlighted that ‘TRINITY’ will offer a strategic advantage by equipping the UK Armed Forces with enhanced decision-making capabilities.
Part of the Land Environment Tactical Communications and Information Systems (LE TacCIS) program, ‘TRINITY’ plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of tactical military communications, particularly in land-based operations.
