Holtec Security International implements goTenna Pro X Series + ATAK for enhanced blue force tracking and after-action reviews
Challenge
Holtec Security International (HSI) provides cybersecurity, network administration, technical support, as well as physical safety to communities, critical infrastructure, and industrial / corporate / governmental facilities. The HSI Composite Adversary Force (HSI-CAF) is a highly trained, adversarial unit supporting nuclear, force-on-force exercises. Fully equipped to simulate real-world threats, HSI-CAF mirrors the tactics of opposing forces while employing different technologies from those used by the blue force during drills.
Before adopting goTenna, HSI-CAF relied on traditional voice radios, which presented several operational challenges:
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Communication breakdowns in industrial environments
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Issues with frequency outputs during push-to-talk (PTT)
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Limited range in complex terrains, hindering effective communication and coordination during exercises.
The need for a reliable, resilient, and scalable communication solution led to the introduction of goTenna, which was recommended by an employee with extensive experience with goTenna from previous Department of Defense (DoD) operations. Initial tests were conducted comparing goTenna and traditional voice radios. Key goTenna differentiators were quickly realized, including ease of use, durability, GPS accuracy, and overall communication reliability. goTenna not only met but exceeded expectations by maintaining accurate movement tracking and sustaining communication inside concrete structures.
Solution
The primary objective for HSI-CAF was to implement a communication platform not typically used within nuclear exercises, and ideally, one versatile enough for broader applications. Given the small size of the adversary force and the complex terrain (including shoreline and surrounding hills), HSI-CAF required a system capable of overcoming a variety of environmental challenges.
Pictured above: goTenna trained notional adversary teams on how to use goTenna devices as part of a security training exercise.
During HSI-CAF exercises, the field test team deployed two relays to create a mesh network spanning a quarter mile. The goTenna Pro Deployment Kit 2 displayed a common operating picture at the command center, and each adversary unit carried a goTenna Pro X2 and a Galaxy S20 running the ATAK (Android Team Awareness Kit) application. The equipment was securely attached to chest rigs or plate carriers using various configurations, including the goTenna Juggernaut case.
Results
For HSI-CAF, the standout feature of goTenna was not limited to its communication capabilities but extended to its ability to generate comprehensive after-action reports (AARs). This capability allowed both HSI-CAF and the command team to review a visual timeline of the exercise, complete with event-specific timestamps. The AAR functionality significantly enhanced the quality of post-exercise analysis for both the adversarial and blue force teams.
goTenna's Bluetooth-enabled mesh radio offers a highly secure and adaptable communication solution that supports a wide range of training drills, exercises, and field operations. Its encrypted network capabilities and detailed after-action reporting make it an invaluable tool for complex, high-stakes scenarios, providing security and confidence.
“goTenna shines in field training and exercises, but there is no doubt it is a great form of encrypted communication between operators, EP agents, security officers, central command, and diplomatic security. We will continue utilizing goTenna in nuclear force-on-force drills and hope to expand the service to LEA, DOE, and DOD units for force-on-force drills. We are grateful to goTenna for taking the time to come out, teach, and help set up each device. goTenna is one of the best companies we have had the pleasure of working with.”
- Jason Tharp, Senior Manager of Security Special Operations, Holtec Security International
