Military "Metaphor": the device allows to combine different communication systems
The Metaphor inter-network relay device has been tested in a special operation zone. It can be connected to various devices that are not directly compatible with each other - a cell phone, military or civilian radio stations, a tablet with the Internet - and transmit encrypted speech or information messages between them. Experts note that the novelty solves one of the most important problems - compatibility of different types of communication systems in combat conditions.
Metaphor's capabilities
"Metaphor" helps to ensure the transmission of speech or messages between cell phones, radios, computers and tablets connected to different networks. The device receives signal from external networks in several ways. The presence of a USB connector allows you to connect a modem with a SIM-card and use the cellular network as a communication channel. A special connector allows you to work with wired Internet. It is also possible to receive the Internet using Wi-Fi.
Two standard mini XLR connectors allow you to connect to the device various types of both military and civilian radios.
- "Metaphor" solves the problems of compatibility of different radios, secure speech transmission, as well as combining them into a single system via broadband networks and the Internet. It is very difficult, and sometimes impossible, to build a communication network from the available different devices, when some of them are incompatible with each other. "Metaphor provides a simple solution to this problem," Andrei Stepanov, director of the developer Smart Technologies LLC, told Izvestia. This Penza-based company implemented the Metaphor development project with the support of the Center for Unmanned Systems and Technologies (CUST).
For example, "Metaphora" allows you to combine into one network, connected to it any civil and military radio station "Azart".
It is also important that the inter-network repeater transmits speech, address and group text messages in encrypted form. Metaphor uses the same cryptographic protocol that is accepted for data protection on the Internet.
- Information protection specialists claim that it would take years to crack such a protocol on powerful modern personal computers," explained Andrei Stepanov. - Besides, even in open mode it is possible to build a secure network - radio stations encrypt the signal themselves.
Metaphora is not affected by REB, as it is not a transceiver.
- For example, the radios themselves, which transmit the signal, are subject to the impact of REB," explained Andrei Stepanov. - Due to the fact that "Metaphor" provides a wide range of connection and switching methods, it is possible to build different variations of communication schemes, the most suitable for specific conditions and restrictions.
The device is configured using a mobile application - a smartphone controls Metaphor via Bluetooth.
The repeater itself weighs 240 grams, of which 150 grams is the battery.
- The weight and size of the device allow you to easily carry it with you, - emphasized Andrei Stepanov.
The developers said that the shock resistance of the product corresponds to the norms for civilian gadgets. To increase the reliability of use in extreme conditions, it is necessary to use additional protective cases or shock-resistant compartments.
"Metaphor" underwent four phases of testing: laboratory, in urban areas, on rough terrain, as well as in combat conditions.
- The fourth phase of the tests was held in the zone of SWO with the participation of fighters, - said Andrei Stepanov. - They gave a high assessment of the device, the first impression of it was extremely positive. The fighters had constructive wishes and advice on usability and modes of operation. We created a chat room for discussions and suggestions. We are working together to improve the product.
Communication problems in the troops
Military expert Vadim Koziulin explained to Izvestia that different law enforcement agencies and structures, in particular, the Interior Ministry, the Russian Armed Forces and the Rosgvardia, have different communication systems.
- The problem of communication between them has been lingering since the Chechen war," he said. - If the device is made by representatives of the so-called people's defense-industrial complex (DIC) and meets the stated characteristics, it is yet another confirmation of the now quite popular idea that our DIC, where amateurs and enthusiasts work, has reached such a technical level during the conflict that it can compete with Western high-budget corporations. Today, such competition is observed, and ours in some cases show themselves very well.
Military expert Alexei Leonkov told Izvestia that radio communication is the main communicator in the NWO zone, which is used for information transfer and interaction.
- As soon as such automation through communication systems appears, many tasks begin to be solved more easily, he noted.
Novelties in the NWO zone
The units operating in the NWO zone began to be supplied with modernized tactical headsets that protect hearing and provide reliable communication. Earlier "Izvestia" wrote that the novelty is compatible with any radios and protective helmets, which makes it universal.
The Echo Pro active noise-canceling headset set includes headphones with a rigid headband, mounts on the helmet rails, a detachable microphone, a cord to connect to the PTT-device (chest switch connected to radios) and clasps.
In addition to the classic rigid headband, there are helmet rail mounts included. The attachment system provides a customized fit according to the personal needs of the fighter - this provides comfort when using the product. The headset operates up to 200 hours on two AAA batteries.
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