Radio communications play a critical role in modern defense systems, enabling real-time coordination, situational awareness, and command-and-control capabilities across a wide spectrum of operations. From tactical field deployments to airborne systems, naval platforms, and satellite communications, the reliability and clarity of radio signals can determine mission success or failure. Underpinning this essential communication infrastructure is a complex network of power systems that must operate flawlessly under extreme environmental and operational conditions. As such, the demand for highly durable, resilient, and efficient power conversion solutions is at the core of defense communication technology.
At Powerbox (PRBX), we have been meeting the rigorous demands of defense applications for over 50 years. Our legacy is built on deep expertise in power electronics and a commitment to engineering excellence. Through decades of experience, we have honed a unique approach to solving the complex power challenges inherent in radio communications for defense. These include not only ensuring robustness and long-term reliability but also achieving optimal performance in terms of size, weight, and power (SWaP)—a key design consideration for mobile and space-constrained applications.
Our defense-focused design methodology begins with a thorough analysis of each application’s mission profile and operating environment. For radio communications, this includes understanding the deployment scenario—whether the equipment is mounted on a ground vehicle, installed in a command post, embedded in a soldier’s personal equipment, or flying aboard a drone or aircraft. Each use case imposes unique constraints and reliability criteria. Our engineering teams collaborate closely with defense system integrators to specify the power architecture, ensuring compatibility with the broader system’s functional and environmental requirements.
In recent years, PRBX has expanded its research and innovation initiatives, including partnerships with universities, defense agencies, and industry consortia. These collaborations allow us to stay ahead of emerging trends in power electronics and to proactively develop solutions that anticipate future defense communication needs. For example, we are exploring gallium nitride (GaN) and silicon carbide (SiC) technologies to further improve power density and switching performance, as well as integrating artificial intelligence into power management systems for adaptive energy optimization.
Learn more about PRBX Defense power solutions
Download and read more in PRBX White paper 039:
Rugged Power supplies for harsh and defense applications – what to consider?
WP 039 – 2024.02.14
Designing effective defense power systems requires a deep grasp of complex performance needs, rigorous testing, and environmental challenges.
Learn more about it in our White Paper:
Rugged Power supplies for harsh and defense applications – what to consider?
