With S-PLANE’s Communication Solutions, Manned and Unmanned aircraft enjoy exceptional RF link connectivity in both LOS and BVLOS environments. The primary building blocks of these solutions are S-PLANE’s TRACKER+ integrated antenna tracker product and industry-leading 3rd party satellite and Line-of-Sight communication links. In addition, S-PLANE provides system engineering, integration, flight testing and certification support to ensure complete Communication Solutions.
Radio Frequency (RF) links and antennas are integrated into the TRACKER+ and the aircraft to provide long-range Line of Sight (LOS) communication between aircraft and Ground Control Stations (GCSs). Rugged and backlash-free harmonic gearboxes drive the tracker’s 2D tracking pedestal. The main structure is manufactured using aircraft-grade aluminium and is assembled as a sealed and temperature-controlled unit for high-power RF links. Each tracker is fitted with directional and omni-directional antennas feeding the integrated RF links. A single military-specification loom serves as interface to the TRACKER+.
The TRACKER+ is compatible with sophisticated LOS communication links in the UHF, S and C bands. Encryption options and dual polarisation MIMO diversity links guarantee maximum link bandwidth, optimal connectivity and link security. High bandwidth links provide payload data streaming and command and control functionality. Ultra-reliable low bandwidth links provide back-up command and control functionality. These LOS links deliver mesh network functionality for multi-hop network range extension and direct connection to the aircraft and GCS for additional airborne and terrestrial forward operators.
BVLOS connectivity is provided by optional SatCom links. S-PLANE supports most high-bandwidth L and K band SatCom link equipment to keep aircraft connected to ground stations. This functionality is backed up by lower bandwidth L band telemetry services to guarantee that aircraft remain connected to ground operators, always! LOSCom and SatCom link connectivity is integrated and managed to provide seamless transition between available links, while carefully managing SatCom usage to minimise operational costs without limiting the mission. Communication Solution management is performed using S-PLANE’s Airborne Data Terminal (X-ADT) and Ground Data Terminal (GDT) equipment.
