ViaSat Airborne ISR Network Upgrade Demonstrates Very High Rate Intelligence Video Return Link

ViaSat Inc. has demonstrated a new return link waveform which could enable a nearly 10-fold improvement in the baseline return link available to current operations. Recent tests provided high data rate, continuous return link traffic using the same airborne broadband satcom network equipment that U.S. Special Forces and a variety of other intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft are operating in the Middle East. In-theater operational demonstrations of the higher return link rates are scheduled for later this year. This improved airborne ISR capability can transmit multiple full motion high definition video feeds as well as other ISR sensor data streams simultaneously from a single platform.
 

 
The development waveform project and demonstration was performed for an undisclosed government customer. Today's operations send high-resolution video and broadband data off the aircraft at speeds up to 1 Mbps. This Ku-band system enables the highest speed ISR missions operating with ultra small .3-meter antennas and meeting the regulatory performance for Ku-band satellites. The purpose of this program is to provide a path for continuous return rates at the highest possible speed while operating on widely available Ku-band satellites.
 
ViaSat mobile broadband terminals include a mix of systems operating on integrated networks for general aviation, communication on-the-move, maritime, and rail. The terminals use ViaSat patented ArcLight® technology, which enables a very small antenna to deliver improved speed and performance compared to other mobile satellite alternatives. The system connects aircraft to both private managed networks in dedicated regions and over the ViaSat Yonder® global network for mobility. While operating on the Yonder network, the systems are networked through a series of eight secure teleports that coordinate bandwidth on 10 satellite transponders. Total shipments of ViaSat mobile broadband terminals have reached 1,500 units for both government and commercial customers.