Airbus trials BLoS SATCOM for helicopters
Airbus has successfully trialled beyond line-of-sight (BLoS) SATCOM helicopter communications in the US using its software-defined Proteus Unity Satellite Modem System on a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.
The trial ‘proves the ability to transmit and receive high data rate intelligence while on the move’, the company announced on 8 September.
Earlier, in September 2020, Airbus Helicopters in the UK successfully tested the modem system through the rotor blades of an H135 helicopter, showing efficiency of more than 80%.
Historically, interference from rotor blades has hindered the widespread rollout of BLoS communication systems for helicopters, so Airbus devised mitigation measures.
‘Proteus Unity addresses this challenge and provides a flexible waveform that mitigates interference by transmitting through the rotor blade disc. The modem system adapts to the environment it sees to ensure the most efficient, secure and resilient communications,’ said Richard Budd, head of UK & US secure communications at Airbus Defence and Space.
Proteus ‘also provides interoperability with other ground or maritime users in the network enabling real-time full-motion high-definition video, communications and intelligence to be sent and received on the move’, he added.
More from Air Warfare
-
Poland and Netherlands approved for hundreds of air-to-ground missiles
The AGM-88E Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM) is a supersonic, medium-range, air-launched tactical missile compatible with US and allied strike aircraft.
-
Anduril and GA-ASI propel forward in US Air Force CCA programme’s next phase
Anduril and GA-ASI have raced ahead in the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) initiative, securing contracts with the US Air Force to build production representative flight test platforms.
-
India could buy nearly 100 new Tejas fighters in biggest ever domestic order
This procurement would form part of the Indian Air Force’s plan to retire its fleet of MiG-21 fighters and replace them with the indigenous LCA Tejas Mk1As by 2025.