Spectra Group launches production version of GENSS radio

The Spectra Group has launched the production variant of its GENSS radio. The system is designed to use leased bandwidth to extend the tactical reach of deployed forces in challenging environments. 

By Sam Cranny-Evans, editor of Calibre Defence, published on March 23, 2026. 

The Spectra Group has launched the production version of its GENSS tactical radio at the Satellite Show on March 23. The radio was originally launched as a concept at the Mobile Deployable Communications conference in London in 2024. Since then, extensive tests and development have taken the radio to its production-ready state. 

Already, the group has a NATO customer undergoing final negotiations to procure the system, the March 23 press release states. GENSS builds on the Spectra Group’s SlingShot, which gives existing radios access to SATCOMs. 

“SlingShot demonstrated how L-Band satellite services could extend the reach of existing radios. GENSS builds on those lessons as a software-defined communications system designed to extend tactical networks and evolve as operational requirements change,” Simon Davies, Chief Executive at Spectra Group said. 

The GENSS radio extends tactical communications beyond the line of sight. This phrase is often used in radio communications, but it means more than what it seems to describe. In effect, high frequency radio waves like VHF and UHF behave similarly to light. This means they travel in a straight line and the antennas of two communicating radios need to be able to “see each other.” If objects come into the path of those signals, they can disrupt communication or block it altogether. 

GENSS provides much greater range by linking to satellites that then retransmit the encoded signal back to another GENSS antenna. This is a core requirement, bringing both bandwidth and greater reliability, especially when forces are dispersed. 

Tech profile: GENSS

GENSS is engineered as a software-defined, modular architecture to facilitate continuous capability evolution. Operational adaptability is ensured through a hardware-agnostic design, which allows for straightforward software reprogramming to meet diverse user requirements. Integration with mission systems, such as ATAK, is achieved through MANET network bridging and distribution across dispersed units. Combining efficient bandwidth usage with adaptive waveform techniques provides resilience communication in contested environments, the press release states. And security is further enhanced through low-power transmission methods designed to reduce the probability of detection and interception.

The core capabilities that the GENSS radio offers include: 

• Beyond-Line-of-Sight (BLOS) Connectivity: Secure voice and data communications are enabled across challenging and extended operational environments.
• Tactical Satellite Networking: Secure L-Band tactical satellite networking (L-TAC) is fully supported for over-the-horizon reach.
• MANET Extension and Bridging: Network bridging allows mission-critical data from systems like ATAK to be distributed across dispersed mobile forces.
• Software-Defined Architecture: Rapid adaptation to new waveforms and system integrations is facilitated through a modular, software-centric approach.
• Hardware-Agnostic Interoperability: High levels of interoperability are provided, ensuring the system remains compatible with various hardware platforms.
• Low Probability of Detection (LPD): The risk of interception is minimized through the use of adaptive waveforms and low-power transmission methods.
• Backward Compatibility: Seamless integration with existing tactical radios is maintained through full compatibility with the SlingShot system.
• Layered Network Support: Robust communication layers are delivered to support both uncrewed systems and fixed headquarters.

Calibre comment: GENSS, a British product

GENSS is a capability that is made in the UK, which is encouraging. The system has been “designed and developed through a collaborative effort of tactical communication experts, seasoned military specialists and top-tier British scientists and engineers,” the press release states. This is understood to include cooperation with the independent, Cambridge-based technology consultants TTP plc. TTP’s teams, which include specialist radio frequency engineers, supported platform development, including custom waveforms.

A waveform describes how data – the voice or text message – is modulated and mapped onto a radio wave. It can also include encryption, frequency hopping patterns and error correction. In the case of GENSS, it was critical that the system worked carefully within its leased satellite bands, TTP states on its website. Spectra Group also states that the radio is manufactured in the UK, which means that the engineering, development, and production are all domestic. 

If you would like to read more on recent updates from the Spectra Group, as well as other stories on tactical comms, check the links below:

• Spectra Group launches Troposcatter on the Move – Calibre Defence 
• Global Invacom launches new range of SATCOM antennas built for rapid deployment 
• BlackTree to Enhance British Army’s Radio Capabilities – Calibre Defence 

The lead image shows a concept image of users deploying the GENSS radio. Credit: Spectra Group.