Intelsat, the operator of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial network and OneWeb (OWT), a global provider of innovative, secure satellite communications, together with Linchpin Solutions, a leader in C5ISR systems and programs, have successfully demonstrated a multi-orbit satellite communications solution for representatives of the US Army and Department of Defense (DoD).
This is a strategic demonstration that shows transport diversification between the geostationary orbit (GEO) and low Earth orbit (LEO) constellations with seamless switching.
Referred to as Automated Primary, Alternate, Contingency, and Emergency (APACE) communications, the solution enables soldiers to survive and excel in contested electronic warfare environments. The reliability of communications is significantly improved by simultaneously sending data over multiple paths and adjusting the traffic flow in real-time between GEO and LEO satellite constellations.
Intelsat and OWT used both GEO and LEO services simultaneously, switching the data flow between orbits instantly at the packet level, using software to determine which connection will provide the best experience based on the technical requirements of the end service. The software solution can be hosted on existing fielded ruggedized virtual machine platforms allowing the system to run in the harshest environments.
Two satellite links were established during the demo – one on the Intelsat 37 (IS-37) satellite and one on a OneWeb satellite. The links communicated through various end-user terminals, including a SatCube terminal, a Kymeta U7/8 terminal, a Litecom GEO terminal, and a OneWeb Intellian terminal, demonstrating applications such as two-way voice and data downloads and MP4 video.
“This demonstration shows how through the power of partnership, we can provide a reliable, secure, multi-orbit, multi-band capability for the military that connects our warfighters to meet their evolving mission requirements,” said president of Intelsat General, Dave Micha. “This enables the delivery of required connectivity, throughput and services to customers when and where that reliable access is needed, even in the harshest elements.”
“This demonstration of low latency, high-capacity throughput via a multi-orbit solution that increases the resiliency of commercial Satcom to DoD and allied partners globally is an important steppingstone as OneWeb rises to the challenges and needs of our customers through partnerships,” said Bob Roe, CEO of OneWeb Technologies, the US proxy subsidiary of OneWeb.
Intelsat is the world’s most trusted integrated space and ground satellite network with a 50-year record of delivering seamless and secure coverage across 200+ countries.