melanie allows collecting gps data from user nodes (also in andvt radio mode) and to provide a robust military interface to connect mbitr to pc (or android tablet). melanie is connected to external connector of mbitr and forwards data/audio connection for c4ops and for rcu. data connection by usb or rs-232. typical bft configuration of a melanie network consists of at least a headquarter station plus user nodes. melanie handheld is able to send own position over the vhf or sat network while exchanging data (chat, file transfer, video, tr@cer, etc.). in transparent mode it has a throughput of 13,5 kbit/s with fec. the device is built by thales italia chieti site., a subsidiary of the thales group.