uAvionix Enhances BVLOS Command and Control Solutions

uAvionix has unveiled important upgrades to its Command and Control (C2) offerings tailored for Beyond Visual Line of sight (BVLOS) Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS). At the forefront of this enhancement is the SkyLine C2 management platform, wich features muLTElink—an innovative integration of LTE technology with broadcast radio frequency (RF) radios. This pioneering solution allows for the real-time selection of the optimal radio link, whether it be LTE, unlicensed Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) frequencies, or aviation-protected C Band, all within a compact, low-SWaP avionic device. The synergy between muLTElink and the SkyLine platform creates a self-healing C2 network that ensures both path and link diversity, effectively mitigating the risk of lost connections across varied terrains and altitudes.

Advanced Airborne Radio Systems

Central to the C2 ecosystem are two variants of the muLTElink Airborne Radio Systems (ARS). The muLTElink915 model incorporates globally licensed aviation LTE, enhanced with frequency-hopping capabilities in the 902-928MHz ISM band, a feature previously available in uAvionix’s microLink radio. Simultaneously occurring, the muLTElink5060 model merges global LTE with aviation-protected 5030-5091MHz C Band, catering to clients with the necessary C-band licenses for Control and Non-Payload Communications (CNPC) operations. Each muLTElink unit also supports the connection of an external CNPC radio,enabling the simultaneous use of all three frequency bands,higher power C Band operations,or future radio integrations. The SkyLine platform intelligently manages available C2 links,continuously monitoring link quality and facilitating seamless transitions during roaming events without any loss of connectivity.

Revamped SkyLink ARS Radios

Along with the new offerings, uAvionix has rebranded its previous microLink and SkyLink ARS radios under the SkyLink ARS umbrella. Each SkyLink ARS can function as a point-to-point radio or be integrated with muLTElink and SkyLine for complete C2 management. The SkyLink915micro is the new designation for the microLink, while the SkyLink915 boasts a more robust design and Lemo connector, ideal for UAS requiring durable installations.

Regulatory Compliance and New Features

The SkyLink5060micro and SkyLink5060 models provide 100mW and 10W options for 5030-5091MHz aviation-protected C Band CNPC. Currently, C Band radios necessitate specific regulatory approvals from frequency regulators, such as the FCC in the United States, a process in which uAvionix assists integrators. Both SkyLink5060micro and SkyLink5060 adhere to standards established by RTCA DO-362A and the FAA’s draft TSO-C213a, with expectations of receiving similar validated TSO approvals from other major global aviation authorities.

New Portable Solutions for Ground Control

uAvionix has also rebranded its existing GRS radios under the SkyLink name and introduced two new portable options featuring LTE backhaul for the SkyLine platform.The skyStation915POE and skyStation5060POE are rebranded versions of the skyStation2 and SkyLink GRS, respectively. Each unit serves as an all-in-one weatherproof transmitter/receiver and antenna, connecting to SkyLine or a Ground Control Station (GCS) via a Power over Ethernet (PoE) IP connection.

Additionally, the skyStation915LTE and skyStation5060LTE offer GRS capabilities in a portable, battery-powered format, utilizing LTE as the backhaul mechanism to link with SkyLine and the GCS. These portable GRS solutions are designed to work with commonly available commercial battery options found in hardware stores nationwide, enhancing accessibility and convenience for users.