Established in 1958, SMC Group is an innovative, dependable, quality designer and manufacturer of specialist masts, HF antennas and RF communications equipment.
SMC Group’s masts and HF antennas are built to perform in any environment. With a rich heritage of more than 65 years of experience, we are trusted to deliver critical communications solutions for some of the world’s biggest organisations.
Since its inception in 1958, SMC Group quickly evolved into a powerhouse of communication solutions, focusing on supplying to defence ministries and developing nations. As an innovative, dependable, quality manufacturer of specialist masts, HF antennas and RF communication equipment, SMC Group has grown and diversified its manufacturing capabilities over the years.
Design and manufacturing
ISO 9001 Accredited
ISO 27001 accreditation
Integrated Manufacturing Systems
CAD and FEA Design
Complete Radio Systems Testing
Audited Export Control Procedures
Spares and After Sales Service
Full Technical Support for Products in the Field
Design and manufacturers of specialist masts and antennas for any application:
- Trusted to deliver critical communications equipment for some of the world’s biggest organisations.
- A rich heritage of over 65 years.
- All Quality Assurance is carried out by hand and our after-sales support is exemplary.
- Our focus is on customer service and providing the most cost-effective long-term solutions.
QUALITY AND COMPLIANCE
We pride ourselves on quality and delivering on-time and in full. SMC Group is ISO 9001 Certified, and all Quality Assurance is carried out by hand.
SMC Group is a Cyber Secure Supplier, working to the highest levels of security and cyber resilience. In 2025 we became ISO 27001 certified, and welcome site visits. We also received Cyber Essentials Plus certification from the UK Government in 2024.
Who we work for
Trusted to deliver critical communications equipment for some of the world’s biggest organisations.
SMC Group provide masts, HF antennas and communications equipment for use on the battlefield and off, including the world’s most demanding locations and applications. Our clients operate in:
- Battlefield operations and armed conflict
- Military supply chain resilience
- Homeland security including border controls
- Law enforcement
- Emergency services
- Commercial security and surveillance
- Telecoms and broadcasting
- Transportation and maritime security
History
2023
65 Years of SMC Group
SMC Group celebrated 65 years and was awarded the UK’s Best International Manufacturer by Business Awards UK.
2020
Pandemic Response
The Covid-19 pandemic affected a multitude of industries. SMC Group adapted to the changes in demand, disruption to the supply chain and the shift to remote working.
2015
Gerald David OBE Award
2014
SMC Gateway Launch
The SMC Gateway was launched, and SMC Solutions was established in the US specialising in designing and supplying a new generation of broadcast vehicles.
2010
Acquisition of Antennares Sarl
SMC Group expanded its operations further in France with the acquisition of Antennares Sarl, specialist in manufacturing microwave antennas and positioners for the defence industry.
2009
20 Years of SMC Group
For almost 20 years, SMC Group had been designing and manufacturing communication systems for the Sharjah Police. Developing and installing a comprehensive radio command and control centre, and ruggedized mobile GIS systems.
2008
US Government Contract
SMC Group wins a major contract for the supply of a VHF radio communication system to the US Government for Afghanistan, including over 35,000 bespoke encrypted mobile and portable radio terminals along with repeaters, masts and antennas.
2005
Acquisition of CTS Minns Ltd
SMC Group acquired CTS Minns Ltd., manufacturer of RF Communications such as HF broadband ferrite matching transformers, hybrids, multicouplers, and filters.
2004
SMC Group Completes SPEAR Project
SMC Group successfully completes the innovative SPEAR Project in Svalbard, one of the largest arrays of antenna systems in the world. Supplying 24 full wave crossed HF dipole antennas and supporting Alumasts for research into the Earth’s upper atmosphere and magnetosphere in the vicinity of the polar cap.
2003
Establishment of Hilomast LLC
SMC Group established Hilomast LLC in the United States, investing in manufacturing and office facilities in Florida. Additionally, SMC Group acquired Astel Communications Sarl, specialists in importing and distributing antennas, masts and accessories in France.
1999
Sir Ranulph Fiennes Polar Expedition
SMC Group supported Sir Ranulph Fiennes in his expedition to the North Pole, providing communication equipment to cope with extreme cold conditions and training.
1996
Acquisition of AEL Communications
SMC Group acquired AEL Communications, HF transceiver manufacturer, and Siskin Electronics, digital radio communications company, enhancing our capabilities in designing and building complete radio systems.
1995
Abu Dhabi Multi-site Installation
SMC Group planned, supplied and installed its first country-wide multi-site radio communication system covering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, including bespoke Arabic touch-screen PC radio dispatch consoles.
1993
Hilomast Aquisition
SMC Group acquired Hilomast, telescopic mast manufacturer and supplier. This enhanced the range of SMC Group mast products, expanding our range to include high quality telescopic masts and trailer systems for communications and lighting.
1991
Contacting the MIR Space Station
BBC TV News televised SMC Group personnel making a historic two-way radio contact with the first Briton in Space, Helen Sharman, whilst she was on board the MIR Space Station.
1986
SMC Group Group Expansion
SMC Group expanded its operations by moving to its current headquarters, a 35,000 sq. ft. office and manufacturing facility in Chandler’s Ford, Hampshire.
1982
SMC Group Support the Royal Navy
SMC Group supplied ancillary equipment, intelligence and support for Royal Navy communications during the Falklands Conflict. SMC Group received a letter from the Ministry of Defence thanking us for our efforts.
1980s
SMC Group Group Expansion
The defence industry faced challenges with aircraft experiencing crashes due to radio interference. In response, SMC Group developed and manufactured bespoke antenna systems designed to simulate external radio signals at close range and high intensity. This enabled the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) to conduct thorough testing and make necessary modifications to their aircraft, ensuring enhanced safety and reliability.
1974
Name Change to SMC Group
The company changed its name to South Midlands Communications Ltd. However, it is most commonly known as SMC Group throughout the world.
1971
SMC Group Radio Retail Outlets
SMC Group launched into Amateur, Commercial and Marine, HF, VHF and UHF radios. This led to the opening of 14 SMC Group radio retail outlets across the country and becoming Yaesu Musen’s largest distributor in Europe for their commercial and amateur radio.
1969
Barry Gardner - Managing Director
Barry Gardner became Managing Director and owner of SMC Group. The company has remained in his family ever since.
1966
HF Manpack Antenna
1958
SMC Group Established
The SMC Group was established in 1958 by Dick Flavell. It was initially called ‘South Midlands Construction’.