#USA #Tampa #Iris Technology #Merlin Handheld+ #AN/PRC-163

Iris Technology Launches the Merlin Handheld+

Iris Technology has officially launched its newest innovation, the Merlin Handheld+, at the SOF Week 2026 event in Tampa, Florida. This cutting-edge device is not just another piece of equipment; it is the only radio power and data adapter specifically designed for the AN/PRC-163. The Merlin Handheld+ aims to tackle the inherent complexities of power and data management faced by dismounted Special Operations Forces (SOF) utilizing the Nett Warrior system, all while maintaining a lightweight and uncomplicated design.

Addressing Operational Challenges

The AN/PRC-163 marks a significant advancement for dismounted SOF teams. However, when integrated into complex mission configurations, such as connecting Electronic User Devices (EUDs) and ensuring secure communication, the surrounding power and data architecture becomes challenging to manage. Operators are often burdened with increased cable management, battery status monitoring, and the difficulty of reconfiguring setups on the fly. The Merlin Handheld+ is designed to change this by reducing operator burden, extending mission endurance, and providing reliable communications without the need for cumbersome workarounds.

Key Benefits of the Merlin Handheld+

The innovation of the Merlin Handheld+ lies in its dual focus: prolonging the operational time of the PRC-163 and streamlining the configuration process for different mission needs. Here’s what the device offers:
1. Integrated Power Scavenging - The device can draw automatically from field-approved power sources, significantly increasing the runtime of the PRC-163 without requiring additional external components. Excess power can be used to charge batteries, reducing the dependency on resupply and allowing for more extended mission periods.

2. Hot-Swap Capability - Battery changes can be conducted seamlessly without interrupting communications or compromising encryption. Its redundant power source bridging keeps the radio operational throughout the transition, enhancing reliability in critical situations.

3. Mission-Configurable Cable Architecture - The Merlin Handheld+ supports four distinct configurations, catering to various operational needs: Power Only, Power + EUD, Standard Nett Warrior, and Nett Warrior + Expansion. This versatility means operators can quickly adapt their setup without starting from scratch, which is vital in fast-moving field conditions.

4. Plug-and-Play Integration - The device attaches directly to the radio and existing battery packs without requiring any tools or modifications. It does not necessitate changes to current radios or operational methodologies, which simplifies user adoption and training processes.

5. Military Compliance - Built to meet MIL-STD-810H and MIL-STD-461G standards, the Merlin Handheld+ is rigorously tested to operate in the demanding environments where the PRC-163 is deployed.

Importance to Military Operations

The Merlin Handheld+ holds substantial relevance not just for units employing the PRC-163, but also for program teams across the Army and SOF formations. It augments radio capabilities at the mission's edge without the need for hardware changes or extensive retraining. Program managers and acquisition professionals at SOCOM, U.S. Army PEO Soldier, and other relevant commands will find this device enhances operational capabilities while easing the burden of cable management and power supply logistics.

The device’s compatibility with various radios, including those from L3Harris, Persistent Systems, Silvus, Thales, TrellisWare, and Viasat, positions it as a unified solution for power and data management across diverse military communication systems.

As Mike Stein, Vice President of Tactical at Iris Technology, stated, “The PRC-163 has proven its worth in combat. The Merlin Handheld+ is designed to ensure its continued effectiveness—longer, farther, and without additional cognitive loads for operators.”

About Iris Technology

Iris Technology is a precision engineering company with over 40 years of experience. They specialize in delivering mission-critical power and data systems for the U.S. military, SOCOM, and other prime contractors. The company holds a CMMC Level 2 certification and is registered under AS9100D, ensuring high standards in quality and performance for their tactical products, deployed across Army, SOF, and NATO programs.

For further information, you can reach out to Michael Laser, Head of Marketing at Iris Technology, via email at [email protected]. The company will be showcasing the Merlin Handheld+ at SOF Week 2026, Booth 755, in Tampa, Florida.