KNL Wins €15 Million Order for Advanced Radios in Nordic Defence

KNL has secured a significant order to supply Cognitive Networked HF (CNHF) Manpack radios to the Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV). Valued at approximately €15 million (around $17 million), this joint procurement initiative marks a notable collaboration in Nordic defence efforts. Fulfilment of the contract is anticipated by the end of 2025.

The CNHF Manpack radio, a portable version of KNL’s stationary CNHF1 rack radio, stands out with its ability to simultaneously receive over 4,000 calling channels. This advanced system can autonomously select the optimal channel and establish a link in less than a second, without requiring operator intervention. It is specifically designed to provide wideband HF communications at speeds of up to 300 kbps, functioning effectively in environments where satellite communications are unavailable.

Security features are paramount in the CNHF system, which offers encrypted voice and data transmissions to safeguard against potential breaches. The radio’s standard interfaces allow seamless integration with existing tactical communications and command and control (C2) systems.

Enhancing Nordic Defence Cooperation

Major General Jarmo Vähtiitto, chief of the FDF Defence Command C5, commented on the joint procurement, stating, “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.” He further emphasized that this initiative enhances Nordic defence cooperation and strengthens joint operational capabilities across all branches and special operations forces.

This procurement is the first joint acquisition under the NORDEFCO (Nordic Defence Cooperation) implementing arrangement for the joint procurement of command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence (C4I) systems. The agreement, which was signed in April 2025 by KNL, FDF, and FMV, establishes a “shared strategic framework” aimed at achieving interoperable communications, joint situational awareness, decision-making support, and enhanced intelligence capabilities among Nordic nations.

By adopting a collaborative procurement approach, Finnish and Swedish forces will be equipped to operate collaboratively from the outset, sharing compatible technology and doctrines.

Strategic Milestone for KNL

Toni Lindén, CEO of KNL, expressed pride in this achievement, stating, “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.”

The CNHF Manpack radios are poised to significantly enhance the capabilities of both nations, ensuring that their armed forces are equipped with cutting-edge technology to meet contemporary and future challenges. As the collaboration unfolds, it underscores the commitment of Finland and Sweden to bolster their defence cooperation and operational readiness in a rapidly evolving security landscape.