Airbus introduces Wel2Go portfolio

Airbus Defence and Space has introduced a new Wel2Go portfolio of scalable welfare satellite communication services for UK military personnel, the company announced on 23 June.

Wel2Go is designed for easy transportation, deployment and operation of in-field private communication channels and is part of the Welfare Communications Everywhere (WelComE) services that the company provides to the UK Ministry of Defence.

The new service portfolio includes Wel2Go Small, a single, lightweight backpack with a small deployable node for a private data, satellite and VoIP network. It is designed to be deployed and configured within five minutes and is suited for deployments of up to 60 people.

Wel2Go Small is a Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) system in an aircraft hold-approved case. It is also lightweight and compact and can accommodate up to 300 users with private VoIP and wireless connectivity in temporary camps.

Wel2Go Large is the third solution in the new portfolio. It is a full fixed VSAT system for permanent and semi-permanent bases. It provides enough bandwidth and network functionality to accommodate the personal communication of almost 1,000 people. The system is transported in a shipping container.

Steve Kelly, WelComE service manager, Airbus Defence and Space, said: 'Scalability is key to the WelComE concept. Welfare communication is vital for military operations and humanitarian missions, but it’s impossible to have a one size fits all system.

'We have designed WelComE to provision voice and data connectivity for any requirements, supporting the welfare of troops and other personnel working away from home by offering a reliable connection with family and friends wherever they are based.'