LTE -- long-term evolution -- is a standard for high-speed wireless transmission of data for mobile phones and data terminals.
The study contract was issued by the French procurement agency DGA. It is for 10 months and will be conducted in two phases. The first phase involves analysis of technical and commercial aspects of the LTE standard and its compatibility with military usage. The second is to research specific communication solutions using LTE technology.
"Once concluded, the study will provide decision-makers with insights into the range of options available and their impact on program costs, timeframes and risks," Thales said.
The value of the ALTEA(1) study contract wasn't disclosed.
"With the increasing use of information systems by the armed forces, LTE is the prime candidate for meeting operational demand for high-data-rate communications," Thales said. "However, this civil technology must be adapted to the military environment, where operating conditions are more severe and performance requirements are more stringent."