Small UAV SATCOM system introduced by Honeywell
NewsJune 16, 2020
ATLANTA, Ga. Honeywell has launched its smallest, lightest satellite communications system yet, specifically designed for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). Weighing one kilogram (2.2 pounds), the new system is 90% lighter than Honeywell's smallest connectivity system and is designed to bring some of the same connectivity capabilities enjoyed by larger aircraft to smaller unmanned vehicles in the air or on land.
Satellite communications (SATCOM) is a broad category of critical technologies that help connect aircraft to each other and to operators or air traffic control on the ground. Also within this category are technologies that make in-flight Wi-Fi or fleet tracking possible.
The Honeywell Small UAV SATCOM system, powered by Inmarsat's global satellite communications network, aims to provide UAVs with global connectivity and real-time video streaming. The combination of the Honeywell Small UAV SATCOM system and Inmarsat's satellite connectivity is intended to keep vehicles connected in remote areas or over water where other ground-based communications systems, such as 4G, are not available.
Traditionally, SATCOM systems have been available only for larger aircraft due to the large size, weight, and power requirements. However, the company claims that Honeywell's Small UAV SATCOM system can be installed in different locations on the vehicle to accommodate a wider range of platforms while ensuring safety of flight and avoiding unnecessary bulk.
