Melbourne, Florida – (May 5, 2025) Critical Frequency Design (CFD), an emerging aerospace and defense photonics technology company based in Melbourne, Florida, today announced the launch of its next-generation Optical Head Unit (OHU)—a Free Space Optical (FSO) communication solution engineered to deliver secure, high-bandwidth connectivity in highly contested and GPS-denied environments.
Designed for integration with Group 2 unmanned aerial systems (UAS), mobile convoys and stationary operation centers, the OHU offers a complimentary alternative to traditional RF-based communication systems. It empowers warfighters with a resilient, low probability of intercept/detection (LPI/LPD) link, even in jammed or denied conditions.
Built on advanced beam-steering photonic technologies, the OHU offers significant reductions in Size, Weight, Power and Cost (SWaP-C) compared to traditional FSO systems. Its compact, ruggedized design enables high-speed laser communication to be deployed across a wider range of airborne and ground-based platforms than previously possible.
“The Optical Head Unit is a force multiplier for teams operating at the tactical edge,” said Dr. Micah Jenkins, Chief Optics Engineer at CFD. “It’s compact, jam-resistant and delivers high-speed data without the vulnerabilities associated with traditional RF. It’s not a replacement—it’s an expansion of what’s possible.”
Key Capabilities:
- Low SWaP-C architecture enables deployment on Group 2 UAS, ground vehicles and stationary platforms like operation centers.
- Provides LPI/LPD communications to reduce detection and interception risk.
- Utilizes electronic beam steering for rapid pointing, acquisition and tracking.
- Supports Comms-on-the-Move (COTM) missions, maintaining connectivity even in dynamic, mobile environments.
- Enables high data rates for critical missions including:
- Up to 1 Gbps at 900 meters
- Up to 1 Mbps at 3,800 meters
- Customizable configurations available to meet specific mission range and performance requirements.
The OHU strengthens CFD’s mission to support resilient communications in electromagnetically contested environments. It was successfully demonstrated in operational exercises such as Silent Swarm, where CFD’s FSO technology maintained reliable, high-bandwidth connections under active jamming.
###
Critical Frequency Design (CFD) provides advanced photonics communications and sensing solutions for warfighters in contested environments. Led by an agile, innovative team of experts across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain and program management, CFD possesses the knowledge and expertise to rapidly deliver mission-critical solutions to the warfighter. Learn more at www.criticalfrequency.com.
CONTACT:
Johnathen Warren, CEO
321-343-5611
JWarren@CriticalFrequency.com
