Updates

Applied Global Technologies' Emergency Communication Systems Impact State of Florida

LIVE OAK, Fla. – The  Florida National Guard has added a new capability to improve speed and communications during crises such as natural disasters and terrorist attacks. The 146th Expeditionary Signal Battalion based in Jacksonville, Fla., recently received several new pieces of communication equipment that will improve interactions between state agencies and local authorities during emergencies by allowing them to communicate with each other more effectively.  During a field training exercise Feb. 9-11, Soldiers from the 146th established a communications link between four North Florida sites in Quincy, Live Oak, Marianna and Camp Blanding.  The Soldiers used the exercise as an opportunity to test the new equipment and update their training on the unit’s tactical satellites and Tropo Scatter Microwave System. One of the new systems tested was the Regional Emergency Response Network or RERN, which uses a variety of frequencies to provide defense support to civilian authorities in times of state-wide emergency. The RERN is capable of providing high-speed Internet connectivity to 40 computers and laptops, signal strength for hand-held radios, and provide a city with a minimum amount of electricity at full-capacity for two and a half days using only two diesel-fueled generators.“It’s like Tropo on steroids,” said Sgt. 1st Thomas Aycock of the 146th Expeditionary Signal Battalion, comparing the RERN to their existing Tropo Scatter Microwave System.  According to unit members, the 2005 Florida hurricanes demonstrated the need to establish quick communications and the importance of cooperation between responding agencies.  National Guardsmen can now move into an affected area and set up power, phones and Internet services – providing a hub for all other responders. “The equipment was designed to allow us to interact with local authorities and let them talk to each other through us,” said Capt. Adrian Johnson, commander of the 146th’s Company C. The equipment also has video teleconferencing capabilities, enabling visual communication between leaders and Soldiers in the field.  The battalion received the new equipment as part of the Army’s transformation initiative to make units more prepared to adjust to changing mission requirements. “This new equipment will allow us to communicate from the foxhole to the president,” said Johnson. Purchased from civilian contractor Applied Global Technology for $500,000, the RERNs are maintained and updated regularly at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center. Meanwhile, the Florida National Guard is focused on training units to operate this new technology as more RERNs are being distributed throughout the state.For more information, contact:Michael TilleyPhone: (404) 402-1004