Tactical Tech & Open Source
Off-Grid Tactical Mapping: Connecting ATAK with Vero Telecom N-Series via TAK-UV-PRO
Transform your standard dual-band transceivers into powerful tactical data modems without relying on cellular infrastructure.
In tactical environments, search and rescue (SAR) operations, or disaster response scenarios, grid-down communication is the ultimate challenge. While the Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK) provides world-class situational awareness, it typically requires an IP network to share data.
The open-source TAK-UV-PRO plugin changes the game. It creates a direct bridge between ATAK and Vero Telecom’s N-Series radios, transforming these dual-band transceivers into powerful tactical data modems.
🛰️ The Core Engine: KISS TNC & Bluetooth Integration
Unlike traditional radios that require clunky external hardware or soundcard interfaces to transmit data, Vero Telecom’s N-Series radios feature a built-in KISS TNC (Terminal Node Controller) and native Bluetooth connectivity.
The TAK-UV-PRO plugin leverages this hardware architecture perfectly:
- Wireless Data Link: ATAK connects to the N-Series radio via Bluetooth, eliminating tangled data cables in the field.
- Native KISS Protocol: The plugin speaks directly to the radio's internal KISS TNC, enabling the seamless encoding and decoding of digital packets over RF channels.
🚀 Key Features of the TAK-UV-PRO Plugin
1. Peer-to-Peer Position Tracking (PLI)
By utilizing the N-Series' RF capabilities, the plugin automatically transmits your team's PLI (Position Location Information) over VHF/UHF frequencies. Even with zero cellular coverage or satellite connectivity, team members will pop up in real-time on each other's ATAK maps.
2. Cursor-on-Target (CoT) over RF
Tactical markers, waypoints, and hazard areas drawn on your ATAK screen are converted into lightweight digital bursts via the KISS TNC. These CoT packets are broadcasted to the entire team, synchronizing situational awareness across the local RF network.
3. Off-Grid Text Messaging
The plugin unlocks the ability to send critical text communications directly through the ATAK interface, utilizing the radio's digital data channel to ensure messages get through when voice channels are congested or compromised.
📱 Hardware Synergy: Recommended Compatible Hardware
The TAK-UV-PRO project is specifically tailored to complement the defining features of Vero Telecom's flagship hardware. Equip your field team with these advanced nodes to build your seamless mesh data network:
Whether you are deploying the VR-N7500 or VR-N7600 as high-power vehicular command stations, or distributing the rugged VR-N76 and VR-N75 handheld units to dismounted ground operators, the network scalability remains uncompromised. The massive 50W output of the mobile rigs stretches the data link over extreme distances, acting as the ultimate tactical backbone for the team's shared ATAK map.
💻 Open Source Innovation & Community-Driven Deployment
The strength of tactical amateur radio lies in community collaboration and open-source infrastructure. The TAK-UV-PRO repository represents the perfect intersection of amateur radio innovation and tactical utility. By utilizing open and standard protocols like KISS TNC, it allows operators to maximize their Vero Telecom hardware capabilities without being locked into proprietary, high-cost software ecosystems.
Ready to deploy? Explore the open-source firmware configurations, installation steps, or contribute directly to the plugin on GitHub: github.com/atakmaps/TAK-UV-PRO