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Spectra Group Trains Philippine Armed Forces on Troposcatter MTTS for Enhanced Communications.
Spectra Group (UK) Ltd, a specialist in secure voice, data, and satellite communication systems, announced on March 20, 2025, the implementation of an intensive training program for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). This initiative aims to enhance the AFP’s strategic communication capabilities by enabling them to fully utilize the Modular Transportable Transmission System (MTTS) developed by Comtech. By engaging in this program, Spectra Group strengthens its partnership with the AFP and contributes to the development of advanced military communication infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region, where geopolitical and technological challenges require reliable and independent transmission solutions.
Troposcatter technology utilizes the troposphere, up to approximately 13 kilometers in altitude, as a transmission medium (Picture source: Spectra Group)
In 2024, Spectra Group acquired the global distribution rights for Comtech’s troposcatter system family, except in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, where Comtech retains distribution. This acquisition is part of a broader expansion strategy to provide armed forces and security agencies in the region with resilient communication solutions tailored to demanding environments. To better address the specific needs of the Asia-Pacific region, Spectra Group recently established an office in Australia, reinforcing its presence in an area where secure connectivity is a key factor in military and governmental operations.
Troposcatter technology utilizes the troposphere, up to approximately 13 kilometers in altitude, as a transmission medium. Unlike conventional satellite-based solutions, it enables high-bandwidth communication independently, even in environments where GPS or GNSS infrastructures are disrupted or unavailable. With low latency and the ability to transfer large volumes of data, it is particularly suited to modern operational environments where real-time information exchange is essential for decision-making. Given its lower operating costs compared to satellite systems, this technology is relevant for armed forces looking to optimize communication infrastructure while maintaining operational autonomy.
The MTTS developed by Comtech and distributed by Spectra Group is distinguished by its flexibility and modularity, providing an immediate response to operational requirements that demand high-power transmissions, typically around 500 W. For the Armed Forces of the Philippines, this system ensures reliable connectivity in areas where infrastructure limitations make traditional communication networks impractical. Due to its rapid deployment capability and resilience, the MTTS enables secure voice, data, and video communications, even in environments where electromagnetic disruptions or cyber threats may compromise other transmission methods.
Throughout March, Spectra Group conducted in-depth training sessions for AFP personnel, ensuring not only full proficiency in operating the MTTS but also the technical expertise needed for its maintenance and adaptation to evolving operational needs. This effort extends beyond technical instruction to establish long-term self-sufficiency, allowing the AFP to sustain and optimize the system without reliance on external support. Integrating the MTTS into AFP operational doctrine represents a step toward greater independence in strategic communications.
Shaun Barry, Business Development Manager at Spectra Group, emphasized that this initiative reflects the company’s commitment to supporting its partners beyond equipment provision. According to him, this training is an example of how Spectra Group helps ensure long-term capability retention among its clients. He noted that the Asia-Pacific region presents unique geographical challenges that require robust and adaptable communication solutions. To address these challenges, Spectra Group offers several complementary alternatives to the MTTS, including the SlingShot system and the upcoming GENSS, designed to meet the specific requirements of complex operational environments.
The Philippines, comprising over 7,000 islands with a diverse topography of mountains, dense forests, and strategically significant maritime areas, faces substantial military communication challenges. The absence of a reliable terrestrial network in certain regions and the need to connect widely dispersed units make troposcatter transmission particularly suited to the AFP’s operational requirements. The MTTS ensures effective transmission of data, voice, and video communications in real time, even in remote or difficult-to-access locations. It maintains constant links between command levels and deployed units without the need for extensive or costly infrastructure.
The AFP’s use of the MTTS extends to a wide range of applications, from conventional military operations to internal security and humanitarian crisis management. By enhancing inter-service communications between the army, navy, and air force, the system improves coordination during joint operations and enhances AFP’s responsiveness to emerging threats. In the event of natural disasters, a frequent occurrence in the Philippines due to typhoons and earthquakes, the MTTS provides a reliable alternative for maintaining communication continuity when conventional infrastructure is damaged or non-functional. Global experience has demonstrated that troposcatter technology is a proven solution for ensuring essential transmissions during crisis situations, facilitating emergency response and disaster relief efforts.
In a regional context marked by increasing tensions, particularly in the South China Sea, where territorial disputes heighten the need for secure communications, the MTTS provides a strategic solution to mitigate risks of satellite transmission interference or interception. Its ability to function independently of external infrastructure strengthens the resilience of the AFP, ensuring continuous connectivity even in contested environments.
The integration of the MTTS into the Armed Forces of the Philippines reflects a modern approach to military communications, emphasizing autonomy, security, and resilience. By providing fast, reliable connectivity suited to the region’s challenges, this system aligns with the AFP’s broader modernization efforts and objective of reinforcing operational independence. Spectra Group, through its expertise and long-term engagement, plays a central role in this transformation by delivering advanced communication solutions and technical support. Beyond simply supplying equipment, this collaboration enables the AFP to operate with a system that is efficient, scalable, and aligned with the demands of contemporary conflicts and national security imperatives.