South Korea has revised its program to introduce the NATO-standard SATURN waveform across the military’s tactical radio network, Korea Times reported.
The revised plan, approved by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), follows US security restrictions preventing the SATURN waveform from being integrated into foreign-developed radio systems.
As a result, Seoul will revise which ground and naval platforms will receive the upgrade, extending the program’s completion date from 2028 to 2032.
The East Asian nation has allocated 2.17 trillion won ($1.4 billion) to the effort between 2022 and 2032, although DAPA said the revised plan is expected to increase overall costs.
SATURN is a secure communications waveform that can be installed on compatible military radios.
It uses frequency-hopping technology to protect tactical voice and data communications from jamming, interception, and electronic attacks while enabling interoperable communications among allied aircraft, ships, and ground forces.
Previous US Approval
The revision comes months after Washington approved a package of communications equipment designed to support South Korea’s adoption of the SATURN waveform across its airborne fleet.
In March, the US State Department approved a possible $200 million foreign military sale to Seoul covering ARC-210 secure radios and KY-100M communications security devices for integration across a range of military aircraft, including F-15K fighter jets, transport aircraft, and CH-47 and UH-60 helicopters.
Collins Aerospace was selected as the principal contractor.
