Modern platforms don’t just need “a switch.” They need a trusted networking backbone that can move mission data deterministically, enforce traffic priorities, and meet security expectations without forcing system engineers to relearn tools or re-architect the design.
Choosing the right PoE product is essential to ensure optimal network performance and reliability. Below are key factors to guide your selection process:
Meet MILTECH 9020 – a 26-port, military-grade L2/L3 managed switch that combines Cisco® hardware and Cisco® IOS-XE with Milpower Source’s power management, rugged hardware, and mechanical design for harsh mobile and stationary deployments. The result is a Cisco-based networking solution purpose-built for defense applications.
At its core, the MILTECH 9020 is designed to provide network engineers with an intuitive and familiar installation experience. Built on the Cisco ESS-3300 and running IOS-XE, it allows teams to use the Cisco commands, policies, and operational workflows they already know. This makes the unit a practical “plug-and-play” choice for programs seeking to accelerate integration and reduce program risk. Rather than adapting your network to a proprietary management framework, the MILTECH 9020 preserves the established Cisco operational model while delivering real-world military durability.
For mission-critical traffic, the MILTECH 9020 supports advanced Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities inherent to IOS-XE. These features enable precise traffic classification, prioritisation, shaping, and congestion management, ensuring that time-sensitive and high-priority data – such as command and control, ISR streams, and real-time video – are delivered reliably even under heavy network load.
The MILTECH 9020 also supports precision timing via IEEE-1588 (PTP), enabling accurate time synchronisation across distributed systems and networked sensors. This capability is essential for applications such as sensor fusion, time-aligned data collection, coordinated EW systems, and deterministic communications, where precise timing is as critical as bandwidth.
Connectivity is equally straightforward and flexible. MILTECH 9020 provides 26 ports total:
- 22 × 10/100/1000Base-T copper for endpoint devices such as radios, cameras, mission computers, displays, and sensors
- 2 × 1G/10G fibre for high-speed mission data and backbone uplinks
- 2 × combo ports (1G fibre or copper), providing configuration flexibility as platform architectures evolve
The MILTECH 9020 stands out particularly for security-focused programs. It is part of Cisco solutions evaluated under CSfC and NIAP, supporting cyber requirements in sensitive and classified environments. With IOS-XE security features available, network teams can implement proven controls such as MACsec (128/256-bit) encryption, 802.1X port-based authentication, secure boot and upgrade processes, and centralized access control using TACACS+ and RADIUS – all within a familiar Cisco operating model.
The system includes an integrated FPGA that continuously monitors internal voltages, temperatures, and switch status, and supports secure zeroisation of sensitive information in the field when required. This enables platforms that require rapid, controlled sanitisation as part of operational or security procedures.
Designed for harsh environments, the MILTECH 9020 chassis meets demanding environmental and electromagnetic requirements, including MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-461, as well as platform power standards such as MIL-STD-1275 and MIL-STD-704. It offers IP67-level ingress protection against dust and moisture, passive cooling, and an operating temperature range of -40°C to +71°C. Power is equally suited for mobile platforms, supporting a wide 18–48 VDC input range with power consumption below 40 W.