Tactical radio systems expand Malaysian defence communications
Thales and Advanced Defence Systems cooperate to localise production and deploy multi-domain communication systems for Malaysian Armed Forces modernisation.
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The cooperation between Thales and Advanced Defence Systems (ADS) focuses on expanding tactical communication infrastructure through local manufacturing and multi-platform radio deployment across land and air defence systems.
Context of the Cooperation
Malaysia’s defence modernisation strategy emphasises technological sovereignty and local industrial capability. In response, Thales and ADS are establishing a radio assembly line in Segamat, Johor, aligned with national objectives to increase domestic content and technical transfer. The scale of deployment—covering ground vehicles and airborne platforms—requires integration across multiple communication layers, including V/UHF and HF systems, as well as interoperability with command-and-control environments.
Thales contributes expertise in software-defined radio (SDR) architectures and battlefield communication systems, while ADS supports local industrialisation and assembly operations. This cooperation addresses the need for secure, interoperable communication systems capable of supporting distributed and network-centric operations.
Technical Solution and Responsibilities
The core of the deployment is based on SYNAPS software-defined radios, designed for multi-band, multi-mission use. These radios operate across VHF, UHF, and HF frequencies, enabling flexible waveform management and interoperability between units.
The system integrates:
- SYNAPS-H radios for high-capacity communication in mobile platforms
- SquadNet radios for short-range, intra-unit coordination
- VHF 9315 and HF XL radios for extended communication ranges
The SDR architecture allows dynamic reconfiguration via software, supporting evolving mission requirements without hardware replacement. Additionally, Thales provides Battlefield Management Systems (BMS), which function as digital infrastructure layers linking sensors, command units, and communication nodes.
ADS is responsible for local assembly and industrial integration, including adaptation to Malaysian operational specifications. This includes manufacturing processes, quality control, and future scalability for additional units.
Deployment and Integration
The deployment spans multiple defence programmes:
- Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) programme: Over 100 radios integrated into artillery vehicles, ensuring real-time coordination between firing units and command centres.
- AV4 armoured vehicle programme: Implementation of proof-of-concept BMS and communication systems for fleet modernisation.
- Airborne systems: Integration of 16 TRA 6036 radios into Royal Malaysian Air Force helicopters, enabling secure air-to-ground and air-to-air communication.
The Johor facility is expected to assemble approximately 1,000 radios over six years, supporting both deployment and lifecycle maintenance.
Applications and Operational Use Cases
The systems are designed for:
- Network-centric warfare, enabling coordinated operations across dispersed units
- Joint-force interoperability, connecting land and air platforms
- Secure communication environments, using encrypted SDR-based transmission
- Real-time battlefield data exchange, via BMS integration
These capabilities improve command responsiveness, reduce communication latency, and enhance operational safety through reliable data links.
Expected Impact
Local assembly contributes to reduced dependency on external supply chains and supports long-term maintainability through in-country expertise. The use of SDR technology enables lifecycle adaptability, allowing updates to communication protocols without replacing hardware.
The integration of radio systems with BMS creates a unified communication architecture, improving situational awareness and coordination efficiency across multiple operational domains.
Edited by an industrial journalist, Lekshman Ramdas, with AI assistance.
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