The CNHF Manpack radio is capable of automatically receiving more than 4000 calling channels simultaneously. Credit: ©KNL.
KNL has secured a joint procurement order for the supply of Cognitive Networked HF (CNHF) Manpack radios to the Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV).
The order is valued at approximately €15m ($17m) and the fulfilment of the contract is expected by the end of 2025.
The CNHF Manpack radio, the mobile and portable version of KNL’s stationary CNHF1 rack radio, can automatically receive over 4,000 calling channels simultaneously.
The radio can independently select the optimal channel and establish a link in under a second without requiring operator intervention.
Designed to function in environments where satellite communications (SATCOM) are unavailable, the CNHF Manpack radio provides wideband HF communications with speeds up to 300kbps and supports various media formats.
Security is a key feature of the system, offering encrypted voice and data transmissions to prevent any potential compromise, stated KNL.
The system’s standard interfaces enable seamless integration with existing tactical communications and command and control (C2) systems.
FDF Defence Command C5 chief major general Jarmo Vähätiitto said: “The Finnish Defence Forces have conducted a thorough and demanding evaluation of the HF radio solutions available on the market in recent years.
“We have determined that KNL’s Cognitive Networked HF (CNHF) system fully meets these modern and future requirements. Moreover, through joint procurement of the CNHF manpack radios, we are enhancing Nordic defence cooperation and strengthening joint operational capabilities across all branches and special operating forces.”
This procurement initiative is the first joint acquisition under the NORDEFCO implementing arrangement for joint procurement of command, control, communications, computers and intelligence (C4I) systems.
The agreement, signed in April 2025 by KNL, FDF, and FMV, lays out a “shared strategic framework” aimed at achieving “interoperable communications, joint situational awareness, decision-making support, and intelligence capabilities” among Nordic nations.
The collaborative procurement approach is designed to ensure that Finnish and Swedish forces are equipped to operate in unison from the outset, sharing compatible technology and doctrine.
KNL CEO Toni Lindén said: “This first joint order by the FDF and FMV under the NORDEFCO C4I framework represents not only a technical milestone but also a strategic one—building a shared communication infrastructure that supports seamless interoperability and secure joint operations across the Nordic region. We are proud to provide both Finland and Sweden with the latest HF-radio technology.”
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