The Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) have signed a joint EUR 15 million ($17 million) agreement with Finnish communications company KNL for the delivery of Cognitive Networked HF (CNHF) Manpack radios. Deliveries are scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025.
According to the FDF, this order is the first joint procurement under the Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO) Implementing Arrangement for Joint Procurement of C4I systems, signed in April 2025. The arrangement provides a shared framework for interoperable communications, joint situational awareness, decision-making support, and intelligence capabilities between Nordic nations.
Major General Jarmo Vähätiitto, Chief of C5 at the FDF Defence Command, said the decision followed a demanding evaluation process.
“Our operational requirements necessitate an HF communications system, including fixed stations and manpacks, all sharing the same waveform, that is both highly capable and reliable, and that can seamlessly integrate into the broader C4I architecture. We have determined that KNL’s Cognitive Networked HF (CNHF) system fully meets these modern and future requirements,” he said.
He added that the joint purchase enhances Nordic defence cooperation and strengthens operational capabilities across all branches, including special operations forces.
KNL CEO Toni Lindén described the CNHF Manpack as “a revolutionary wideband HF radio” with performance, reliability, and ease of use in a class of its own. He noted that CNHF radios operate independently of all infrastructure, including GPS, ensuring communications sovereignty even in contested or degraded environments.
“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,” Lindén said.
The CNHF system’s design enables long-range connectivity without reliance on satellites or fixed infrastructure, making it suitable for scenarios where traditional communications could be disrupted. The system’s flexibility allows it to be deployed across land, sea, and air platforms.
This joint procurement reflects a broader trend of Nordic countries deepening defense integration in response to evolving security challenges in the region. With aligned technology and doctrine, Finland and Sweden aim to ensure their forces can operate together from the outset of any combined mission.