The German defense contractor Hensoldt announced the launch of the DL-6000, its sixth-generation data transmission solution, at IDEX 2025. According to the company, the DL-6000 enables “the seamless exchange of HD video and telemetry data over long distances and lines of sight between different platforms”.
DL-6000 is an IP-based, data-intensive communication link for video and telemetry transmission. Because it is based on the Internet Protocol (IP), it enables the transmission of secure, high-resolution video and telemetry data from unmanned and rotary platforms in the air to ground-based command and control centers. Multiple radios can be networked together, enabling distributed payload and platform control and display functions.
“In modern defense and communication systems, the connection between technologies determines the real tactical and strategic advantage,” explains Marcus Reuter, Key Accounts Manager of Hensoldt South Africa’s Radar Business Unit. “The DL-6000 serves as a critical backbone that seamlessly connects sensors, platforms and operators, ensuring real-time data exchange for mission success.”
The terminal is described as a “software-defined radio with a system-on-module architecture that provides users with flexibility and performance customization to meet changing operational requirements”. It also offers full backwards compatibility with the Hensoldt DL-5000 range of data links.
High operational readiness
The DL-6000 is designed for performance, reliability and user-friendliness, according to Hensoldt. This is intended to maximize the effectiveness of use while minimizing life cycle costs. Hensoldt: “Its modular and flexible support concept ensures long-term sustainability and operational efficiency.”
In addition, robust spread spectrum technology ensures a low probability of interception and detection and provides anti-jamming capabilities. This enables the data transmission system to withstand demanding electromagnetic warfare environments and ensure secure and uninterrupted communications.
Increased survivability
With a stable, range-independent downlink data rate, the DL-6000 airborne radio terminal offers operators good data throughput even in demanding operational environments. Thanks to the low latency, precise and reliable data and video transmissions enable the operator and command team to make safe and quick decisions. This in turn ensures an advantage over threats and increases survivability.
The DL-6000 is a complete data link solution housed in a single STANAG-4586 compliant radio. It is specifically optimized for easy integration into manned and unmanned platforms with a smaller footprint and a wide range of discrete data and video interfaces.
Click here for more Hensoldt news.
