Samsung has announced the expansion of its Tactical Edition lineup with the introduction of the new Galaxy Tab Active5 Tactical Edition for the US market. This device represents an evolution in Samsung’s tactical mobile technology, offering military-grade security and compatibility with specialized software applications utilized by special operations teams.
Samsung’s Tactical Edition mobile solutions are developed in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense and are currently in use across all branches of the U.S. military. These solutions are also presented as suitable for first responders.
The Galaxy Tab Active5 Tactical Edition maintains features from previous Tactical Edition models, including tactical radio interoperability and mission-ready software support. It incorporates new hardware enhancements designed to support the secure transmission of classified information.
The tablet is built for integration with various tactical equipment, such as tactical radios, drone systems, laser range finders, and external GPS, aiming to support communication in multi-domain environments and provide situational awareness. It supports conventional cellular capabilities, including 5G, LTE, CBRS, Wi-Fi 6E, and is listed as AT&T FirstNet Ready.
A 5G band-locking mode allows the tablet to connect exclusively to certified 5G networks. For off-grid communications, military personnel can utilize Stealth Mode, which disables LTE and e-911 and mutes radio frequency broadcasting. Covert Lock provides an additional layer of security by de-energizing baseband communications modems and GPS, aiming to prevent the device from emitting an RF signature.
The tablet features tools intended to enhance situational awareness. Night Vision mode is included to support viewing through night vision optic devices. The device is optimized for applications such as Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK) and the Battlefield Assisted Trauma Distributed Observation Kit (BATDOK).
Security for the Galaxy Tab Active5 Tactical Edition is provided by Samsung Knox security, described as a defense-grade security platform integrated into Samsung devices. The tablet is stated to meet industry regulations, including NSA’s Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) Components List, which is presented as enabling military personnel to securely access classified information. Knox Dual Data at Rest (DualDAR) is included to protect classified data with two layers of encryption. Hypervisor Device Manager (HDM) is utilized as a defense mechanism, enforcing restrictions on LTE and GPS connectivity.
Designed for use in demanding environments, the Galaxy Tab Active5 Tactical Edition is rated to endure drops up to 1.5 meters and is IP68-rated for dust and water resistance. It is also MIL-STD-810H compliant for resistance to extreme altitudes, temperatures, vibration, and humidity. The device includes a replaceable battery and a touchscreen designed for use when wet, with gloves, or with the included rugged S-Pen.
The Galaxy Tab Active5 Tactical Edition is described as supporting a variety of use cases for military personnel. It features an Exynos 1380, 5nm Octa-core processor and an 8-inch display. An S Pen is included for screen annotation, and the tablet is equipped with a 5 MP front camera and a 13 MP rear camera.
Availability
The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active5 Tactical Edition is available through select IT channel partners.