uAvionix and viasat: A Strategic Partnership to Enhance UAV Communication

uAvionix has announced a strategic partnership with Viasat,joining the latter’s Velaris partner network.

Integration of Advanced Communication Technologies

As part of this collaboration, uAvionix is incorporating Viasat’s Velaris module into its compact muLTElink airborne radio system. This integration leverages Viasat’s extensive global L-band network, wich offers secure and reliable communication solutions tailored for commercial UAVs.

Enhancing BVLOS Operations

The Velaris system facilitates real-time monitoring for Beyond Visual Line of sight (BVLOS) UAV operations,ensuring seamless integration within commercial airspace. uAvionix’s innovative system combines multiple communication bands, including C-band, LTE, ISM, and Viasat’s L-band, effectively managing each data link through a DO-377A Link Executive Manager (LEM). This setup also automatically registers aircraft with uAvionix’s SkyLine Cloud Managed BVLOS service.

SkyLine: A Revolutionary Command and Control network

SkyLine stands out as the first cloud-based command and control network that integrates fleet management,network health monitoring,and detect & avoid capabilities.It also supports seamless make-before-break roaming across various radio networks and ground stations, specifically designed to enhance safety for BVLOS operations.

Successful Testing and Performance Insights

In 2023, during system integration testing, uAvionix successfully configured a Velaris advancement terminal with its SkyLine system, achieving a remarkably stable streaming connection within just a few days.Cyriel Kronenburg, VP of Aviation Networks at uAvionix, remarked on the successful flight tests conducted in northern Montana, highlighting the remarkable performance of the satellite communication system. He noted, “The satcom technology considerably bridged the performance gap, providing a stable connection while transitioning from the airport to our deployed SkyStations.”

Looking Ahead: Future Collaborations

Joel Klooster, SVP of flight Safety and advanced Air Mobility at Viasat, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “uAvionix is a highly regarded innovator in avionics and software. This collaboration formalizes our ongoing initiatives and paves the way for future projects. together, our combined expertise will drive further advancements in aviation technology.”