Pilot testing of new radios commences

 

Pilot field testing of preferred radio products has started in Districts 5, 14 and 22 as the next stage of the Radio Replacement Program (RRP) gets underway.

 

The RRP aims to ultimately deliver the replacement of CFA’s current CFA Tait TM/TP9100 radio fleet across the state including all mobiles, portables, bag radios, vehicle-mounted repeaters and local bases.

There is also potential to fund additional radios under the program, significantly increasing current capability.

The pilot will test Motorola products which were identified as the preferred solution during field evaluations of shortlisted products in 2022. The field evaluations included putting the radios through testing in simulated operational scenarios and laboratory evaluations by CFA’s ICT team.

The pilot testing phase will allow for more considered evaluation of the Motorola products including the operational use of the radios and ancillary products in the field.

The pilot is being conducted as close to operational conditions as possible, with volunteer trainers educating their fellow members prior to them using the proposed products to ensure their safety as well as effective testing of the products.

Existing CFA Tait portables as well as some Tait mobiles (in identified and agreed vehicles) will remain at the pilot brigades as a backup.

DCO Operational Response & Coordination Garry Cook AFSM said more than 18,000 CFA radios would be replaced as part of the project.

“CFA's current radio the Tait TM/TP9100 series has been in service since 2009 and the technology is now out of date; the radio itself is no longer in production,” Garry said.

“The new radios will introduce a welcome technology refresh with enhanced features and functionality for members.

“Through the pilot and by testing in an operational environment we will determine if the preferred products offer the best radio solution for CFA’s needs.

“We appreciate the patience shown by everyone as we embark on this exciting journey - the project team would like to thank all members participating in the pilot for their support.”

For information about the pilot visit Members Online or for any queries please email radioreplacement@cfa.vic.gov.au

 

Submitted by	Duncan Russell