Thales and ADS Demo HF XL Radio

Our Bureau - : Apr 10, 2026 - : 5:19 pm

On 10 April 2026, Advanced Defence Systems Sdn Bhd (ADS) and Thales conducted a historic live demonstration of High Frequency (HF) XL Radio technology at the Ministry of Defence football field in Kuala Lumpur. This milestone event marked the first regional showcase of the next-generation communication system designed for beyond-line-of-sight operations. The demonstration established a three-way link between Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, and Lumut in Perak to prove the long-range reliability of the hardware.

The primary objective of the exercise was to highlight the radio's capability to maintain secure data transmission and live video streaming across demanding terrains. By utilising a 400W tactical station with an ANT 308 antenna, the demonstration confirmed the equipment's robustness in adverse weather conditions. This technology serves as a critical resilient backup to satellite communications, ensuring that the Malaysian Armed Forces maintain connectivity even when satellite signals are compromised or unavailable.

The HF XL Radio system is currently slated for adoption by the Malaysian Army to bolster its tactical communication infrastructure. The system represents a significant leap in regional technological standards. The ability to stream live video over HF frequencies allows for enhanced situational awareness in remote areas without relying on expensive orbital assets.

Regional Perspective

From a regional perspective, the successful deployment of such technology addresses growing security concerns across the Indo-Pacific maritime and jungle environments. As nations in Southeast Asia seek to modernise their defence capabilities, the shift towards sovereign and resilient communication channels becomes a strategic priority. This development underscores Malaysia's commitment to integrating advanced digital technologies into its national defence framework.

The collaboration leverages Thales’ three-decade history of providing tactical communications within Malaysia. Florian Riou, the Managing Director of Thales Malaysia and Brunei, expressed gratitude for the continued trust of the Malaysian Armed Forces in their technological solutions.

As global powers compete for influence in the region, Malaysia's focus on diverse and reliable communication systems ensures a balanced and independent operational capability.

Tactical Communication Breakthrough

The demonstration featured the 400W HF XL tactical radio configured as a stationary unit. This system is engineered specifically for modern defence requirements that demand high-speed data alongside traditional voice channels. Its ease of deployment and adaptability make it suitable for both military operations and large-scale disaster response efforts.

Strategic Regional Implications

The involvement of the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) highlights the multi-agency importance of this technology. By establishing a reliable link between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, the system proves its worth for national unity and security. This advancement strengthens the local supply chain and reinforces ADS's position as a preferred industrial partner for global defence manufacturers.

Future Defence Sovereignty

Thales continues to invest significantly in research and development, with an annual allocation of approximately €4.5 billion (US$4.78 billion). This investment supports the creation of tools that address the challenges of sovereignty and security in the digital age. The adoption of the HF XL radio ensures that Malaysia remains at the forefront of tactical communication technology in the Asia-Pacific region.