A high quality high frequency (HF) oblique chirp ionosonde known as ROSE (Radio Oblique Sounding Equipment) has been developed for use in propagation research and associated studies of the ionosphere. Two versions of ROSE have already been demonstrated and one has recently been deployed to provide scientific data for a propagation experiment. Recent developments have resulted in an improved architecture, designated ROSE-300, which allows adaptability and adds an increased affordability to the system. This paper describes ROSE and discusses the new architecture and techniques which have now been incorporated. Applications to ionospheric research are mentioned and an emphasis is placed upon the additional capabilities offered by the new design.