Israel’s Gilat announces launch of ultra-compact, high-throughput SATCOM terminal for unmanned aerial systems

Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd., a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions and services, has announced the commercial availability of an ultra-compact airborne satellite communications (SATCOM) terminal for unmanned aerial systems delivering exceptional throughput for its size.

Tactical, long-endurance unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are commonly used to gather and send intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) information to ground stations in real time. Reliable, high-performance satellite communications are crucial for ensuring uninterrupted broadband connectivity in beyond line-of-sight (BLOS) missions.

The newest in Gilat’s field-proven family of unmanned aerial terminals, BlackRay 72Ka combines high performance and throughput with a minimal footprint. Weighing less than 5Kg. (11lbs.), the compact BlackRay 72Ka terminal is an ideal solution for even very small-unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The miniature BlackRay 72Ka is specifically designed to operate with the new generation of Ka-band high throughput satellites (HTS), supporting outstanding data speeds of up to 2 Mbps for any Internet Protocol (IP)-based voice, video or data BLoS application. This highly integrated terminal comprises best-of-breed very small aperture terminal (VSAT) technologies developed and manufactured by Gilat.

The BlackRay 72Ka terminal provides full-duplex satellite communication, linking the UAS to its ground control station. The forward link provides command and control capabilities, while the return link transfers sensor data.

“Gilat’s unmanned SATCOM solutions enable customers to fully exploit the operational range of the UAS for both commercial and military applications,” said Michael (Miki) Barak, VP Mobility Division, at Gilat. “Our new BlackRay 72Ka terminal addresses the tactical need for reduced size and weight, helping to increase mission effectiveness. The system’s tiny dimensions enable BLOS operations for the smallest UAS platforms, with remarkable data speeds needed to support real-time downloads of high resolution images.”

Original published at: https://spacewatch.global/2017/03/israels-gilat-announces-launch-ultra-compact-high-throughput-satcom-terminal-unmanned-aerial-systems/