Last Updated on: 14th October 2024, 04:41 pm
New Tactical Power and Data Communication Solution to Increase Equipment Runtime, Reduce Load, and Simplify Reconfiguration of Communication Kits.
OTTO and Freedom Atlantic are pleased to announce the official launch of WedgeX™, an innovative advancement in tactical communications technology. WedgeX promises to revolutionise the way soldiers manage their communication equipment, setting a new standard in the radio power/data wedge sector with unmatched adaptability, user-friendliness, and extended operating time for frontline users.
As warfare becomes increasingly decentralised and unpredictable, soldiers must frequently adjust their communication kits to meet shifting operational requirements. Current systems demand considerable time and effort to manage, which can detract from soldiers’ ability to focus on mission success and survival.
WedgeX addresses this by automating and simplifying the management of communication equipment. With its modular design, WedgeX enables rapid reconfiguration of kits based on mission needs, significantly easing the physical and cognitive strain of managing multiple devices and connectors.
“WedgeX is a game-changer for the modern soldier,” said Ken Jillson, Chief Technology Officer at Freedom Atlantic. “From the beginning, we aimed to create a communications solution that adapts to the soldier’s requirements—not the reverse. The WedgeX system continually assesses how soldiers are using their equipment and dynamically adjusts power distribution to keep their most vital devices functional when they need them most. Our goal is to allow soldiers to stay mission-focused by eliminating the hassle of managing their gear.”
The WedgeX system includes several innovative capabilities:
- Automatic Device Run-time Management: Uses advanced algorithms to track and manage equipment runtime, ensuring essential devices are prioritised and battery life is maximised through techniques such as power scavenging and temperature-aware charging.
- Multi-Mission Modularity: A versatile design that caters to various mission profiles and power needs, whether for short-term or long-term operations.
- Simplicity: Combines data from tactical devices into a single, configurable hub and power controller, doing away with the need for extra cables and connectors.
“WedgeX represents a significant leap forward in tactical communication systems,” commented Dan Stanek, President of OTTO. “With automatic run-time management and an easy-to-use configuration process, WedgeX improves operational efficiency and boosts soldier survivability. It’s specifically designed to meet the evolving requirements of modern combat environments.”
The WedgeX system is comprised of two key components: the WedgeX Radio Power Adapter and the SideLink Modular Radio Hub Adapter. The Radio Power Adapter is placed between the radio and the battery, and is compatible with existing tactical radios that use a MIL-STD twist-lock bayonet-style battery interface. The SideLink module links WedgeX, radio data interfaces, ATAK EUD, and other external data devices, ensuring seamless integration without additional external hardware.
Jointly developed by OTTO and Freedom Atlantic, WedgeX delivers a communications advantage to soldiers by reshaping tactical radio power and data distribution. This state-of-the-art solution ensures rapid adaptability, extended run-time, and reduced loadouts.
