Orbit and Viasat collaborate to merge airborne terminals with expansive Ka-band Network

Orbit and Viasat collaborate to merge airborne terminals with expansive Ka-band Network
by Sophie West
London, UK (SPX) Jul 18, 2023

Netanya, Israel (SPX) Jul 18, 2023 Orbit Communications Systems Inc., a supplier of SATCOM terminals, tracking ground station solutions, and crucial airborne audio management systems, has announced a cooperation agreement with Viasat Inc. This new alliance will see Orbit's airborne terminals integrated into Viasat's expanded Ka-band network, a vast framework which now encompasses the Global Xpress (GX) network, following Viasat's acquisition of Inmarsat on May 30th.

The agreement incorporates Orbit's MPT-30 (12") and MPT-46 (18") Ka-band product lines. The unification of these systems will result in a multi-constellation-capable array of terminals operating across Viasat's Ka-band networks, the Global Xpress network, and other MEO constellation networks.

The unique and integrated solution promises military and commercial end-users ubiquitous access to the Ka-band capacity. It also guarantees global coverage, bolstered resiliency from the Viasat and Global Xpress networks, and a plethora of benefits that the newly amalgamated company aims to offer to its clientele through broader network integration.

Orbit's CEO, Dany Eshchar, expressed satisfaction over this collaboration, stating that the unified solutions promise customers a market-leading, future-oriented approach. The proven airborne systems developed by Orbit, already installed and operational worldwide, are evidence of the dedication both Orbit and Viasat teams have in supporting customers long-term.

Victor Farah, Vice President of Viasat Government Broadband Systems, shared similar enthusiasm. He emphasized the progress made in jointly developing a universal Ka-band terminal system, capable of supporting multiple constellations and orbits, and effectively utilizing Viasat's recent acquisition of Inmarsat for enhanced Ka-band capacity and flexibility. Farah reiterated Viasat's commitment to offer its government customers a truly global and flexible Ka-band experience.

The Multi-Purpose Terminals (MPT) fulfill the requirement for constant coverage of both military and commercial airborne users. It permits government users to roam between commercial Ka-band and Mil-Ka services, all the while keeping connectivity uninterrupted during all flight phases. These terminals, with their low size, weight, and power (SWaP), can deliver up to 126 Mbps forward link and 29 Mbps return link on Mil-Ka HCX service.

Adaptable to a variety of aircraft types such as business jets, mission aircraft, rotary wing, and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), these terminals comply with industry standards, including MIL-STD-188-164C, RTCA DO-160G, FCC, and ETSI.

Moreover, their compatibility with military satellite systems makes them an ideal choice for government airborne Intelligence, Reconnaissance, and Surveillance (ISR) applications. The agreement between Orbit and Viasat marks a significant milestone in SATCOM solutions, promising clients enhanced global connectivity and robust systems integration.