Transbit R-452C-01

History

The Transbit R-452C-01 is a Polish dual-channel software-defined tactical radio developed to connect Transbit tactical networks with communications systems using the TSM waveform. It was publicly presented at the MSPO 2026 defence exhibition in Kielce, Poland, held from 8 to 11 September 2026.

The R-452C-01 is derived from the R-450C-01 wideband radio. It retains compatibility with existing R-450C networks while adding a second independent radio channel intended to improve interoperability between Polish and allied tactical communications networks.

The design combines Transbit proprietary networking waveforms and TSM-based communications within one radio platform. Both channels can operate simultaneously, allowing networks built around different radio technologies to exchange data through the same equipment.

Development

The R-450C family forms part of Transbit's RADION tactical battlefield communications system. R-450C radios are used to exchange voice, video, telemetry, sensor information, and operational situational-awareness data through command-and-control systems.

For the R-452C-01, Transbit retained the first channel's 225–400 MHz operating range and its compatibility with the R-450C-01. Supported Transbit waveforms include MultiChannel CSMA, TDMA, and CSMA-FH, which operate within self-organizing MESH and mobile ad hoc networks.

The principal change is the addition of a separate electronic module forming the second radio channel. This channel supports the TSM waveform and is intended to provide direct interoperability with compatible radios used by the Polish Armed Forces and other NATO forces.

Transbit also envisages further development through a modular architecture in which additional electronic modules could be installed for interoperability with other classes of communications equipment. Development of the new design is scheduled for the third quarter of 2027.

Design

The R-452C-01 is a dual-channel software-defined radio in which the two radio channels operate independently. The architecture allows both channels to function at the same time, enabling one device to participate in a Transbit waveform network while also communicating through a TSM-based network.

First radio channel

The first channel retains the core radio architecture of the R-450C-01 and operates in the 225–400 MHz frequency range. It supports Transbit proprietary waveforms, including MultiChannel CSMA, TDMA, and CSMA-FH, and is designed for operation in resilient self-organizing MESH and MANET networks.

Compatibility with existing R-450C-01 equipment allows the R-452C-01 to connect with established Transbit-based tactical communications networks without replacing the first-channel networking architecture.

Second radio channel

The second channel is fully independent and covers 225–450 MHz, 698–970 MHz, and 1250–2600 MHz. It incorporates a module supporting the TSM waveform used by several NATO tactical radios.

This channel is intended to communicate directly with compatible L3Harris Falcon IV-family radios, including the AN/PRC-158, AN/PRC-163, and AN/PRC-167. The arrangement allows Transbit software-defined radio networks and TSM-based coalition networks to be connected through one R-452C-01 platform.

Networking role

The dual-channel configuration is intended to reduce the need for separate radio platforms when units must participate in networks using different manufacturers' waveforms. Simultaneous operation of both channels allows the radio to act as an interoperability point between Transbit tactical networks and compatible TSM networks.

Program status

The R-452C-01 had reached the public demonstration stage by MSPO 2026. The available information describes the radio as a new development of the established R-450C family rather than as an operationally fielded production model.

Further development is planned around a modular concept in which additional electronic modules could provide compatibility with other communications systems according to customer requirements. Completion of the new design is scheduled for the third quarter of 2027.

Specifications (R-452C-01)

General characteristics

• Type: Dual-channel software-defined tactical radio
• Architecture: Two independent radio channels capable of simultaneous operation
• First-channel frequency range: 225–400 MHz
• Second-channel frequency ranges: 225–450 MHz, 698–970 MHz, and 1250–2600 MHz

Communications

• First-channel waveforms: Transbit proprietary waveforms including MultiChannel CSMA, TDMA, and CSMA-FH
• First-channel networking: Self-organizing MESH and mobile ad hoc networking
• Second-channel waveform: TSM
• Interoperability: Compatible with existing R-450C-01 networks and intended to communicate with TSM-capable radios including the L3Harris AN/PRC-158, AN/PRC-163, and AN/PRC-167

Related equipment

• Transbit R-450C-01: Earlier wideband software-defined radio on which the R-452C-01 is based and with which its first channel remains compatible.