uAvionix has unveiled a major software enhancement for its muLTElink product line, facilitating sophisticated link management to ensure reliable command and control (C2) and payload connectivity during operations involving uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS).
The muLTElink system, which can integrate up to four distinct radios (C-Band, LTE, ISM, and optional IP-based radios like SATCOM or Starlink), features cutting-edge Dynamic Link Selection and Active Link Monitoring capabilities.These advancements enable smooth, automated make-before-break transitions across multiple C2 links without requiring operator input.
This update allows for the optimization of dedicated radios for Command Non-Payload Communications (CNPC), enhancing path and frequency diversity. This minimizes the chances of losing connectivity in challenging terrains or fluctuating RF environments, while also providing an additional link for transmitting payload data.
New functionalities include:
Real-Time Dynamic Link Selection
Automatically identifies the best link (LTE, C-Band, ISM, or an IP-based radio like SATCOM) based on current signal quality, interference levels, and geographical factors.
Active Link Monitoring
Continuously assesses all available links and autonomously switches before any failure occurs, effectively eliminating link loss.
Enhanced Network Resilience
Offers genuine frequency and path diversity. Any adversarial interference or coverage gaps in one band can be circumvented using alternative routes.
Reduced Operational Costs
Smart link arbitration minimizes unnecessary dependence on expensive SATCOM by utilizing LTE or ISM when feasible.
Proven Reliability in the Field
During FAA contract testing, muLTElink demonstrated an impressive 99.97% link availability over a 360-mile flight path, with total downtime of less than 5 seconds across 4.3 hours.
Use Cases for Deployment
The enhanced muLTElink is tailored for high-stakes and intricate UAS operations, including long-range linear inspections (such as pipelines, powerlines, and railways), emergency response and public safety missions (DFR, overwatch), as well as urban air mobility (UAM) trials and infrastructure assessments.
Research and Certification Initiatives at FAA Test Sites
Current configurations of muLTElink include the muLTElink5060, which integrates LTE and C-Band in a compact 100g, 2W package, and the muLTElink915, which features LTE and ISM radios at 65g.
Both models support external SATCOM integration and are managed through uAvionix’s SkyLine C2 Manager, a web-based platform designed for link arbitration and C2 application integration. Each muLTElink can be paired with either a skyLink915 or skyLink5060 to provide up to four communication links.
Cyriel Kronenburg, VP of UAS and Aviation networks at uAvionix, stated, “This release brings significant enhancements in operational resilience and cost-effectiveness that our clients have requested. Our customers encounter unpredictable terrains, RF interference, and increasing complexities while managing aircraft and fulfilling missions. The improved automation of muLTElink allows the UAS to select the optimal link in real-time for C2, ensuring continuous payload data transmission—enabling operators to concentrate on their mission rather than the network, all through a single device.”
connect with uAvionix at XPONENTIAL 2025, Booth 3033.
