AN/PRC-161 Handheld Link 16 Radio

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The modern battlefield demands speed, precision, and secure communication across multiple domains. The L3Harris Battlefield Awareness and Targeting System-Dismounted (BATS-D) AN/PRC-161 handheld Link 16 radio has emerged as a game-changing solution for dismounted warfighters. Designed to fuse air and ground situational awareness into the palm of a soldier’s hand, this ruggedized device delivers real-time Link 16 communications at the tactical edge. Whether worn on a vest, carried by hand, or mounted on equipment, the AN/PRC-161 ensures that Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs), Forward Air Controllers (FACs), and Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) specialists maintain direct access to the Link 16 network.

Photo Credit: l3harris

Key Features of the AN/PRC-161 Handheld Link 16 Radio

Photo Credit: l3harris

The AN/PRC-161 is engineered to meet the demanding requirements of modern combat operations. Its key features include:

  • Rugged, small, and lightweight design for maximum portability
  • Advanced power management to extend operational endurance
  • Link 16 voice and data capabilities for secure communication
  • Link 16 Frequency Remapping (FR) for flexible network integration
  • Enhanced Throughput (ET) boosting data rates from 115 Kbps to over 1.1 Mbps
  • Concurrent Multi-Net (CMN) and Concurrent Contention Receive (CCR) for simultaneous network access
  • Modular design enabling future growth and upgrades
  • Full interoperability with JTIDS, MIDS-LVT, MIDS JTRS, STT, and other Link 16 systems
  • Compatibility with government-fielded batteries and accessories
  • Compliance with Link 16 CMI standards
  • Suite A and Suite B algorithms with timeslot-by-timeslot switching

These features ensure that the AN/PRC-161 remains a versatile and future-proof solution for joint and coalition forces.

Enhanced Throughput and Concurrent Multi-Net Capabilities

One of the most significant advancements offered by the AN/PRC-161 is its Enhanced Throughput (ET) mode. Traditional Link 16 networks operate at a protected data rate of 115 Kbps, but the BATS-D radio boosts this rate to over 1.1 Mbps. This dramatic increase allows warfighters to share mission-critical information faster and more securely, supporting evolving operational requirements.

Additionally, L3Harris has pioneered the integration of Concurrent Multi-Net (CMN) and Concurrent Contention Receive (CCR) technologies. These capabilities provide Concurrent Multiple Reception (CMR), ensuring that warfighters can access multiple networks simultaneously without losing critical data. This innovation guarantees assured access to information in complex, multi-domain environments.

Reducing the Kill Chain and Preventing Fratricide

The AN/PRC-161 handheld Link 16 radio directly connects ground warfighters to Close Air Support (CAS) aircraft. This connection dramatically shortens the kill chain, reducing the time from initial contact to weapon delivery to as little as 30 seconds. By providing accurate situational awareness across all nodes in a joint integrated air/ground operational picture, the radio minimizes the risk of fratricide. JTACs and FACs can digitally call for fire, ensuring precision targeting and rapid response in high-intensity combat scenarios.

Cryptographic Security and Coalition Interoperability

Security remains a top priority in modern military communications. The AN/PRC-161 implements the latest high-assurance algorithms through a programmable Cryptographic Modernization compliant engine. This ensures secure communication across joint and coalition missions while maintaining backward compatibility with legacy systems. By supporting both modern and legacy Suite A and Suite B algorithms, the radio provides flexibility and resilience in diverse operational environments.

Configurable Operational Modes for Maximum Flexibility

The AN/PRC-161 is configurable for a wide range of operations, offering both autonomous and tethered modes:

  • Autonomous Link 16 Untethered Mode: Allows the radio to enter the network without user interaction, transmitting Precise Participant Location and Identification (PPLI) data, including emergency indications when required.
  • Fully Tethered Mode: Enables integration with Nett Warrior systems, USB, or Ethernet connections to tablets or laptops. This mode allows the exchange and display of situational awareness data and Platform J host information with the Link 16 network.

These flexible configurations ensure that the radio can adapt to mission-specific requirements, whether operating independently or as part of a larger digital ecosystem.

Future Growth Capabilities of the AN/PRC-161

Beyond its current features, the AN/PRC-161 is designed with growth in mind. Future capabilities include:

  • Link 16 precision navigation for enhanced battlefield positioning
  • Advanced anti-jam technologies to counter electronic warfare threats
  • Expanded network optimization tools to maximize participant capacity and information sharing

These growth capabilities ensure that the AN/PRC-161 will remain relevant as military communication needs evolve in the coming decades.

BATS-D Radio Mount (BRM) – Full Specifications

Photo Credit: l3harris

Photo Credit: l3harris


CategoryAttributeValue
PhysicalDimensionsW: 4.9" (12.5 cm), H: 3.5" (8.9 cm), D: 10.6" (26.9 cm)
Volume181.8 cu in. (2992.6 cu cm)
WeightWithout Radio: 4.0 lbs (1.81 kg)
With Radio: 6.5 lbs (2.95 kg)
CoolingIntegral variable rear fan (controlled by radio battery temperature)
Data InterfaceEthernet, USB (Nett Warrior)
EnvironmentalTemperature (Operating)-30 °C to +50 °C (-22 °F to 122 °F), MIL-STD-810H
Temperature (Storage)-30 °C to +71 °C (-22 °F to 159.8 °F), MIL-STD-810H
Altitude (Operating)15,000 ft (4572 m), MIL-STD-810G
Altitude (Storage)15,000 ft (4572 m), MIL-STD-810G
Humidity≤ 95% non-condensing, MIL-STD-810G
VibrationMIL-STD-810H Method 514.8, Procedure I, Category 24 (with optional tray)
Shock40 G, 11 msec all axes, MIL-STD-810H (with optional tray)
RainMIL-STD-810G, Method 506.5, Procedure I – Rain & Blowing Rain
Salt FogMIL-STD-810G, Method 509.5
BatteryType7.0Ah Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery, Metal Case (TDSI)
Connectors6-Pin, 7-Pin (power pass-through when battery depleted)
Charge ThresholdsStart: ≤ 85%
Stop: ≥ 90%
Temperature (Charging)≤ 50 °C (charging stops above this)
Temperature (Operation)≤ 60 °C (battery temporarily ceases operation above this)
ElectricalDC Input28 VDC per MIL-STD-1275D (11–50 VDC)
Current Draw1.79 A (max) with radio
Power50 W (max) with radio
SecurityLock Feature0.31" max diameter
With Vibration Isolation Tray (Optional)DimensionsW: 8.00" (20.3 cm), H: 4.25" (10.8 cm), D: 10.25" (26 cm)
WeightWithout Radio: 5.75 lbs (2.6 kg)
With Radio: 8.25 lbs (3.75 kg)
Key Features – Mission FlexibilityFeaturesSecurely mounts handheld BATS-D radio
Locking features
One-hand grab & go
Optional BATS Vehicle Adapter (BVA) for extended range & dual antenna
Key Features – Simplified IntegrationFeaturesSmall form-factor with forced air cooling
DC power conversion
Inputs/Outputs routed to BRM connectors
Standard interfaces (Ethernet, USB)
Convenient breakout of discrete I/O


BATS-D Power and Cooling Case specifications and technical features

Photo Credit: l3harris


CategoryDetails
Specifications- Operating voltage: 24–28 VDC
- 220W desktop power supply with overload/voltage/temp protection
• Input: 85–264 VAC, 47–63 Hz
• Output: 24 VDC, 9.2 A
- USB-C power output with PD profiles: 5V–3A, 9V–3A, 12V–3A, 15V–3A, 20V–4.2A
- Circuit breaker protection: 10A Main, 3A Fan
Interfaces- Amphenol 97 Series 2-pin power receptacle
- USB-C power out
- RJ45 Platform-J Ethernet host data interface
- TNC-F Link-16 RF connector
Weights & Dimensions- 41.8 cm × 33 cm × 17.3 cm
- 16.44" (W) × 13" (D) × 6.82" (H)
- 9.5 kg (21 lbs) with BATS-D terminal and accessories
Standard Accessories- 220W 85–264 VAC power supply
- 28 VDC power cable
- USB-C to USB-C cable
- IRIS Technologies pass-through charger
- 2.5 mm Allen Key T-handle
Part Number16000-2171-01
Key Features- Rugged, small, and lightweight
- Rapid deployment and setup
- AC power supply included, 24/28 VDC compatible
- Active cooling via dual cooling fan system
- Aluminum heat-sink radio mount
- IRIS Technology Merlin pass
-through radio power adapter
- USB-C power outlet for host EUD charging
- External interface for RF antenna or cabling
- External Ethernet interface for Platform
-J host connection

AN/PRC-161 Handheld Link 16 Radio Specifications

CategoryDetails
Mission Flexibility- Fully functional Link 16 radio
- Handheld/small form factor
- Coordinate and maneuver assets instantaneously
- Embedded SAASM GPS
- Standardized quick-change rechargeable battery
- J-Voice and Platform-J data capable
- Built-in keypad/display
- Voice PTT Key and mic/speaker
- Extremely low size, weight, and power
- Jam resistant for contested/denied environments
- Coalition interoperable
- Rugged design (MIL-STD 810-F)
Situational Awareness- Friendly force tracking
- Provides air and ground common operational picture
- Tethered mode interfaces with: ATRAX, ATAK/TAK (Android/Windows), ADSI®, JRE, Gateway Manager, LinkPRO®, KILLSWITCH, APASS, DASS, WINTAK
Command and Control- J12 mission management to any non-C2
Target Attack- Digitally-aided Close Air Support
- Cursor on Target (CoT) capable
- Shortens kill chain (F2T2EA: Find, Fix, Track, Target, Engage, Assess)
- JTAC target POSID/9-line/BDA
- Target update
- Imagery and data
- Mobile target attack
NSA Certified- Link 16 CMI Compliant
- Embeds NSA Certified KOV-56 Crypto Engine (L3Harris ES-1850)
Performance- Frequency Range: 969–1206 MHz Link 16
- Transmission Modes: Link 16 TDMA, all OP modes, enhanced throughput
- Antenna Ports: Link 16 50 Ω, GPS 50 Ω
- Batteries: 12 V Rechargeable Lithium-Ion, 6.8 Ah
- Data Interfaces: Ethernet/USB/Nett Warrior
- Dimensions: 2.6" (w) × 8.4" (h) × 1.7" (d); 6.6 cm × 21.3 cm × 4.3 cm
- Volume: 36 cu in. with battery; 23 cu in. without battery
- Weight: 2.19 lb with battery; 1.28 lb without battery
- GPS: Embedded SAASM
Range- Clear line-of-sight transmission range in excess of 75 nm
Transmitter- Power Output: 8 W
Waveforms- L-band: Link 16 data and voice including enhanced throughput modes
Environmental- Operating Temperature: -31° to +60° C (-23.8° to +140° F)
- Storage Temperature: -33° to +71° C (-27.4° to +159.8° F)
- Immersion: 2 m; 20 m option

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