The Virginia National Guard recently issued new Radio System equipment to the Virginia Defense Force (VDF). The VDF has a dedicated communications unit whos mission is to ensure that in the event of communications failure during a statewide emergency they can provide a backup system for voice and data communication.

Virginia Defense Force Mobile Communications Platforms improved their capabilities with the addition of Virginia Statewide Agencies Radio System equipment courtesy of the Virginia National Guard J6 Joint Communications Section in early November.

According to the VIrginia State Police website, STARS provides multi-channel trunked digital voice and data wireless communications specifically designed for public safety and service requirements and provide interoperability with state police, other state agencies and localities.

The VDF MCP is a 7 1/2 feet by 16 feet trailer equipped with multiple radio systems for voice and data communications. Using an MCP, members of the VDF are able to communicate across a variety of radio spectrums with emergency response and public safety organizations as well as amateur radio operators. In the event of severe weather like hurricanes or heavy snow where traditional communication systems could become disrupted, the VDF MCPs would provide a vital communications capability for the VNG as it conducts operations to assist with keeping citizens of the commonwealth safe.