R-460A Radio Relay Variants – Configuration Flexibility Depending on Application
The R-460A radio relay has been designed as a modular and scalable digital communication platform, available in several functional versions. This allows hardware configurations to be tailored to specific tasks – from simple access connections to fully functional network nodes with high throughput and operational resilience.
R-460S – Lightweight Access Variant:
Configuration: RFU-IV radio unit only, without the BBU (control unit)
Operating Band: IV
Throughput: up to 600 Mb/s full duplex
Functionality: limited – functions as an access terminal, can be operated by a small group of soldiers
Application: rapid integration of a single unit (e.g., platoon or patrol) into a larger tactical network. A lightweight, simple, and quick-to-deploy variant enabling rapid network range extension without a full management suite. Ideal for integration with mechanized infantry or observation posts.
R-460AM – Standard Full-Function Set for Band IV:
Configuration: RFU-IV + BBU (control unit)
Operating Band: IV
Throughput: up to 600 Mb/s full duplex
Functionality: full – includes link management and transmission control
Application: classic point-to-point connections, e.g., between command containers. A reliable set for building high-performance tactical communication links – the backbone of modern IP infrastructure at the battalion, brigade, or fire control post level.
R-460AM – Variant Supporting MIMO Antennas, Maximum Throughput in Band IV:
Configuration: RFU-IV + BBU with extended functionality
Operating Band: IV
Throughput: up to 600 Mb/s full duplex (with MIMO antenna)
Functionality: full, including support for advanced transmission techniques
Application: high-capacity connections, such as ISR data transmission, UAV video streaming, or real-time video feeds. A solution for units requiring stable, broadband, and secure data transmission – suitable for mobile communication nodes, stationary command posts, observation, or reconnaissance systems.
R-460AM-2 – Full Functionality, Support for Bands III+ and IV, Backward Compatibility with R-450A:
Configuration: RFU-IV + RFU-III + BBU
Operating Bands: IV and extended III+
Throughput:
- up to 600 Mb/s in Band IV (with MIMO antenna)
- up to 100 Mb/s in Band III+
Functionality: Full – dynamic band selection and compatibility with previous generations
Application: Bridging technology gaps during modernization of the Polish Armed Forces; operation in mixed environments (new and legacy equipment)
The most versatile variant, enabling:
- Deployment in next-generation Mobile Digital Communication Nodes
- Step-by-step equipment upgrades without decommissioning existing infrastructure
- Full compatibility with R-450A radio relays (e.g., in Band III+)
- Maximum operational flexibility – frequency band selection depending on environmental conditions or electronic warfare threats
Key Benefits for the Polish Armed Forces:
- Ensures operational continuity and easy expansion of tactical networks
- Enables gradual modernization without costly decommissioning of legacy systems
- One platform, many use cases – from lightweight terminals to high-throughput backbone radio relays