Curtiss-Wright Debuts Fully-Integrated Secure Wi-Fi Access Point for Tactical Battlefield Deployment

Curtiss-Wright Debuts Fully-Integrated Secure Wi-Fi Access Point for Tactical Battlefield Deployment
New PacStar 464 secure Wi-Fi access point module seamlessly integrates Wi-Fi network access, meshing, and client access for secure networks

 

ASHBURN, Va. – May 11, 2021 - Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions division today announced that its PacStar® business, a leading developer and supplier of advanced communications solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), has introduced a new Secure Wi-Fi Access Point module that adds a fully integrated highly secure wireless mesh node for voice, video, and data communications to the popular PacStar 400-Series family of modules. The new small form factor PacStar 464 Secure Wi-Fi Access Point module, based on Ultra Electronics’ WiFiProtect Gateway technology, reduces size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) by eliminating the need for a third-party access point or an additional transport case. The module’s mobility and rapid setup time make it ideal for defense and civilian use cases, such as command posts, vehicle-mounted wireless access, and flyaway small team systems.

“Warfighters at the edge of the tactical battlefield are increasingly reliant on secure, fast Wi-Fi data communications,” said Chris Wiltsey, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions division. “Our new PacStar 464 module delivers an all-in-one access point and encryption solution that eases and speeds the deployment of trusted voice, video, and data communications.”

“We’re committed to expanding and enhancing our industry-leading PacStar 400-Series family of modules that delivers enterprise-class networking services to the tactical edge,” said Peggy J. Miller, Senior General Manager, PacStar Business Unit, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions division. “Our new PacStar 464 Secure Wi-Fi Access Point, developed in collaboration with Ultra Electronics, enables secure networks in the field with an all-in-one compact device that integrates seamlessly with our wide array of PacStar 400-Series modules and packaging solutions.”

With support for link rates up to 300 Mbps per radio, PacStar 464 provides a rugged, self-forming, self-healing wireless mesh network solution for deployed applications. To secure network communications, the module shields vulnerable radio links using government-certified encryption technologies and certifications, including FIPS 140-2, Common Criteria, DoDIN APL, and Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) components listing. The compact, lightweight module (5.3” x 7.0” x 1.6” and 2.5 lbs) runs standalone or integrates seamlessly with other PacStar 400-Series standard small form factor modules. Tested to MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-461 qualification standards, PacStar 464 is ideal for military and defense environments that require operation in harsh environments.

Curtiss-Wright’s PacStar business offers a wide array of system packaging options for PacStar 400-Series, including briefcase, transit case, rack mount, vehicle mount, and backpack transport.

Curtiss-Wright’s PacStar products are manufactured in its facility in Portland, Oregon.

About PacStar’s Family of Leading Battlefield Solutions

PacStar’s industry-leading family of advanced communications solutions addresses a wide range of military, intelligence and commercial applications. PacStar creates and manufactures COTS-based rugged, small form factor expeditionary and mobile communications systems. Separately, it developed integrated, network communications management software, IQ-Core Software, for the military, federal, state/local government, and emergency responder markets. The company’s patented IQ-Core Software, hardware technology, and integrated solutions provide secure, command, control, and communications systems, particularly in remote or infrastructure starved areas. In addition, PacStar’s communications systems are ideally suited for commercial/industrial organizations with mission-critical field communications requirements.

About Curtiss-Wright Corporation

Curtiss-Wright Corporation (NYSE: CW) is a global innovative company that delivers highly engineered, critical function products and services to the Aerospace and Defense markets, and to the Commercial markets including Power, Process, and General Industrial. Building on the heritage of Glenn Curtiss and the Wright brothers, Curtiss-Wright has a long tradition of providing reliable solutions through trusted customer relationships. The company employs approximately 8,200 people worldwide. For more information, visit www.curtisswright.com.

Note: Trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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John Wranovics

John Wranovics

Director of Public Relations

John Wranovics has over thirty years of experience in managing media relations and the promotion of high technology products. He has been with Curtiss-Wright since 2003. He has a degree in English Literature from the University of California, Berkeley.