Hughes has demonstrated the capability of operating satcom links on board helicopters, even with working through the rotors.
Hughes Network Systems, LLC has successfully demonstrated high-throughput video and data over satellite-communications (satcom) links on a variety of different helicopters. The firm used an advanced waveform technology and its new communications-on-the-move (COTM) microsat system for zero packet loss on transmission and reception through the rotor blades, over both Ka and Ku-band satellite channels. Tests were conducted on a variety of military and commercial helicopters in both static and in-flight environments that included numerous pitch, bank, and roll maneuvers.
According to Rick Lober, Vice President and General Manager of Hughes Defense and Intelligence Systems Division, “Our new microsat technology is ideal for C2 and ISR missions in all airborne as well as maritime and land environments, combining patented waveform design on a proven, and common platform for all applications—unlike other single-use solutions.” The system successfully transmitted full motion video (FMV) beyond the line-of-sight (BLoS) through the rotor blades over both conventional Ku-band global beam and Ka-band global or spot beam satellites. To learn more, click here.