SKYTRAC’s Innovative Leap into Unmanned Aviation
SKYTRAC Systems Ltd. has made a significant entry into the realm of unmanned aviation wiht the introduction of the IMS-350. This Integrated Mission System terminal is equipped with the advanced Iridium Certus 9810 modem, facilitating reliable communications across the globe for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. The system supports various applications, including Command and Control (C2), payload health monitoring, live video streaming, data transmission, and AI-driven sensor integration. By forming a strategic alliance with Iridium as a Value-Added Manufacturer, Reseller, and Service Provider, SKYTRAC is broadening its focus to encompass the unmanned aviation sector, in addition to its existing fixed-wing and rotorcraft markets.
Enhanced Connectivity with Iridium Global Line of Sight
Utilizing Iridium’s Global Line of Sight (GLOS) CertusSM services, the IMS-350 offers impressive broadband capabilities, delivering 352 kbps for uplink and 704 kbps for downlink, all while maintaining latency below 500 milliseconds through a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite connection.
Flexible Architecture for Diverse Applications
Building on SKYTRAC’s certified Satcom avionics, the IMS-350 features a versatile architecture designed for systems integrators and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). It includes multiple interfaces such as Ethernet, ARINC-429, RS-232, RS-485, discrete input/output ports, and a CAN bus, enabling seamless dialogue between microcontrollers and devices.
Intelligent Connectivity Solutions for Aviation
“With the introduction of the IMS-350, SKYTRAC is now offering intelligent connectivity solutions tailored for both manned and unmanned aviation sectors,” states Jan van der Heul, Vice President of Sales at SKYTRAC.“The IMS-350, powered by Iridium Certus, represents a cutting-edge, robust, and future-ready solution that integrates seamlessly into our existing Iridium Certus product lineup, enhancing our diverse applications and capabilities.”
Optimized Data Management for Enhanced Efficiency
The IMS-350 is equipped with a high-performance multicore server that supports sensor-specific applications, allowing for real-time data parsing to optimize satellite communication costs. Its integrated smart router efficiently manages data traffic by prioritizing throughput, thereby maximizing the use of satellite and cellular channels. This capability significantly enhances operational efficiency across various UAS mission profiles, including aerial firefighting, offshore oil and gas operations, search and rescue missions, disaster relief efforts, law enforcement, military applications, and more.
Compact and Versatile Design
As the lightest and smallest high-speed Iridium Certus Satcom terminal currently available, the IMS-350 is housed in a robust, easily mountable design. For urban operations, it includes cellular and Wi-Fi radios, providing additional terrestrial connectivity options. When combined with Iridium, cellular, and Wi-Fi antennas, the IMS-350 stands out as the most extensive BVLOS connectivity solution for Group 2-5 UAV categories.
Launch Customers and market Adoption
The IMS-350 program has already attracted launch customers, including UAV manufacturers, systems integrators, Drone-as-a-Service providers, and advanced research institutions.
Introducing the Data Link System 100
For those in search of a midband UAS Satcom solution,SKYTRAC has also unveiled the Data Link System 100 (DLS-100) modem.This device offers 22 kbps uplink and 88 kbps downlink capabilities, facilitating Command and control (C2), limited video, and data transmission similar to the IMS-350. The rugged, IP67 compliant modem utilizes Iridium certus for reliable pole-to-pole connectivity, boasting a 99.9% reliability rate and lower latency compared to Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite systems. It is compatible with both commercial and Department of Defense (DoD) SIM cards and features remote management capabilities via web or software API as required.
Meeting the Demands of Modern UAV Operations
As commercial unmanned aircraft increasingly take the place of conventional solutions, operators will need cost-effective and highly capable UAVs to tackle more complex tasks. The IMS-350 and DLS-100 represent SKYTRAC’s commitment to providing robust UAS Satcom capabilities, offering both data link and custom onboard server functionalities for operators seeking reliable and proven global communication solutions.
