Domo Tactical Communications (DTC), a UK-based specialist in tactical communications systems, has launched the Sentry 6161—a new generation of mesh-capable MANET (Mobile Ad Hoc Network) radio. Designed to support high-throughput IP connectivity in contested environments, the Sentry 6161 is aimed at enhancing situational awareness and resilient C2 capabilities across dismounted infantry and mobile platforms.
Overview of the Sentry 6161 Capabilities
The Sentry 6161 is a software-defined radio (SDR) operating in L-band and S-band frequencies with an emphasis on robust waveform performance in dynamic operational conditions. It supports DTC’s proprietary MeshUltra-X waveform—an evolution of its previous MeshUltra protocol—enabling scalable IP-based networking with low latency and automatic rerouting.
Key specifications include:
- Frequency Range: Selectable between L-band (1350–1390 MHz) and S-band (2200–2500 MHz)
- Bandwidth: Up to 20 MHz per channel
- Waveform: MeshUltra-X with adaptive modulation and forward error correction
- Data Throughput: Over 100 Mbps aggregate throughput under optimal conditions
- Encryption: AES-256 encryption with optional FIPS-compliant modules
The device features dual Ethernet ports and USB-C connectivity for integration with soldier systems, sensors, or vehicle-mounted mission computers. It also includes embedded GPS/GNSS functionality and supports video streaming via RTSP or multicast protocols.
Tactical Applications Across Domains
The modularity of the Sentry 6161 makes it suitable for a range of tactical roles—from dismounted squads requiring peer-to-peer communications to mounted ISR platforms needing high-bandwidth backhaul. The radio supports simultaneous voice, video, and data transmission across a decentralized mesh topology without dependency on fixed infrastructure.
This makes it particularly relevant for operations in GPS-denied or EW-contested environments where traditional line-of-sight radios or SATCOM links may be degraded. According to DTC statements at DSEI London 2023—where early prototypes were previewed—the system was developed with direct input from UK MoD end-users during field trials under the LE TacCIS program.
MeshUltra-X Waveform Enhancements
The core advancement in the new platform lies in its MeshUltra-X waveform. Unlike legacy MANET waveforms that degrade rapidly as node count increases or when nodes are mobile, MeshUltra-X uses adaptive routing algorithms optimized for high-mobility scenarios such as infantry on foot or UAV relays.
DTC claims that networks built around this waveform can scale up to dozens of nodes without significant degradation in latency or throughput. Additionally, it supports Quality-of-Service (QoS) prioritization—critical for ensuring command messages or ISR feeds are not delayed by lower-priority traffic.
Integration with Broader C4ISR Architectures
The dual-Ethernet interface allows seamless integration into existing C4ISR systems including ATAK-enabled devices (Android Team Awareness Kit), BMS platforms, and unmanned ground vehicles. The use of open IP standards enables interoperability with other NATO-standard equipment provided frequency deconfliction is managed appropriately.
DTC has also indicated that future firmware updates will introduce native support for STANAG-compliant waveforms such as WAVE or ESSOR HDR modes if adopted by partner nations. This would allow coalition interoperability while preserving national waveform sovereignty through modular encryption layers.
Industry Positioning and Competitive Landscape
The launch positions DTC more aggressively against established players like Persistent Systems (Wave Relay MPU5), Silvus Technologies (StreamCaster), Thales (SquadNet), and Harris/L3Harris (Falcon IV). While those systems have broader adoption among U.S. forces or NATO allies, DTC’s offering emphasizes compactness (<800g weight), power efficiency (<10W typical draw), and customizable firmware stacks tailored to specific mission profiles.
DTC has seen prior success supplying communications gear to special forces units under classified procurement channels; however, the company now appears intent on scaling into conventional force programs through open competitions such as Project Morpheus under UK Strategic Command’s digital transformation roadmap.
Outlook: Fielding Timeline and Export Potential
No formal contract announcements have been made yet regarding full-rate production orders from the UK MoD; however, limited operational evaluation kits are reportedly being trialed by British Army units as of Q3 FY2025. Export interest has been noted from Scandinavian countries seeking Arctic-capable mesh radios optimized for cold-weather endurance and autonomous vehicle integration.
If successful in securing domestic orders under LE TacCIS Phase III or Project Morpheus subprograms by late FY2026, the Sentry 6161 could become a cornerstone node type within future British Army digital backbone architectures—especially given its potential role in manned-unmanned teaming scenarios involving UGVs or loitering munitions relays.
