The Merlin Handheld+ is a compact, rugged radio power and data adapter designed for the AN/PRC-163, launched by Iris Technology on May 13, 2026, at SOF Week 2026 in Tampa, Florida. Engineered specifically for dismounted special operations forces (SOF), the device addresses power and data complexity when integrating the PRC-163 into Nett Warrior configurations, eliminating reliance on improvised cabling and external power solutions.
What it does
The Merlin Handheld+ delivers two core capabilities: integrated power scavenging and mission-configurable cable architecture. It automatically draws power from field-approved sources, extending PRC-163 runtime while charging its internal battery—reducing resupply needs and enabling longer mission endurance. Hot-swap functionality allows battery replacement without interrupting communications or crypto operations, thanks to redundant power source bridging.
The device supports four distinct cable configurations tailored to mission profiles:
- Power Only (CWB radio-only)
- Power + EUD
- Standard Nett Warrior (CWB + EUD + Red/Black separation)
- Nett Warrior + Expansion (adds second CWB or scavenging)
Operators can carry only the configuration needed and scale as required, without rebuilding setups from scratch. The Merlin Handheld+ attaches directly to the radio and battery pack with no tools, modifications, or changes to the radio’s waveform or operational use.
Tradeoffs
The Merlin Handheld+ is designed for backward compatibility and minimal integration overhead. It does not alter the AN/PRC-163’s hardware or software and requires no additional training or fielding infrastructure. It is compliant with MIL-STD-810H for environmental durability and MIL-STD-461G for electromagnetic interference, ensuring reliability in operational conditions.
While built for the PRC-163, the adapter is also compatible with radios from L3Harris, Persistent Systems, Silvus, Thales, TrellisWare, and Viasat, enabling cross-platform power and data management for multi-vendor communication inventories.
When to use it
The Merlin Handheld+ is intended for SOF and Army units already fielded with the PRC-163, including those under SOCOM, U.S. Army PEO Soldier, Army Futures Command, MARCORSYSCOM, NIWC-A/P, and NAVAIR. It is also relevant for integrators supporting units such as the 1st Special Forces Group, 75th Ranger Regiment, and Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). The device is suitable for dismounted missions where cable burden, power endurance, and rapid reconfiguration are critical.
Iris Technology, a 40-year precision engineering firm, designs mission-critical power, data, and control systems for the U.S. military and DoD contractors. The company is CMMC Level 2 certified and AS9100D registered, with products deployed across Army, SOF, and NATO programs.
The Merlin Handheld+ simplifies tactical communication infrastructure by consolidating power and data management into a single ruggedized adapter—reducing operator cognitive load and physical kit complexity without introducing new dependencies.