This marks the first tactical communications and command & control (C2) systems agreement made under the NORDEFCO framework. The agreement will run from 2025 to 2035, with automatic one-year extensions beyond its initial term.
KNL’s CNHF system is a fully autonomous high-frequency communications solution designed to operate beyond line-of-sight, offering secure and reliable connectivity across large distances. It uses spectrum sensing to detect and adapt to radio conditions in real time, providing optimal communication even in complex environments.
“The agreement with KNL enables the procurement of cognitive High Frequency (HF) radios,” the Finnish Defence Forces stated. “These are communication devices capable of autonomously assessing the radio frequency environment and adapting their operations accordingly.”
Toni Lindén, CEO of KNL, expressed pride in the milestone achievement and the trust placed in the company’s technology. “We are honoured that the Finnish Defence Forces and Swedish Defence Materiel Administration have chosen KNL as their trusted partner in building the unique capabilities for long-range connectivity,” said Lindén.
He also highlighted the broader significance of the deal within Nordic cooperation. “With this agreement, the Nordic cooperation shows its strength, and we are proud to be the first company to sign command & control systems framework agreement under NORDEFCO.”
The agreement allows other NORDEFCO countries to join in future, potentially expanding the reach of the technology across the region. Lindén added, “This is just the beginning of something big. Our technology meets a critical need in today’s security situation, and the interest we see from several NATO countries confirms that we have developed something truly valuable and unique.”
KNL, headquartered in Oulu, Finland, specialises in communication technologies that operate beyond line-of-sight, offering software-defined radios tailored for modern defence and security operations. The company is part of the Telenor Group, a leading telecommunications provider in the Nordics and Asia.
