NAL Research and VectorNav Technologies are joining forces to develop Iridium® STL (Satellite Time & Location)-aided inertial navigation systems (INS) aimed at addressing the growing need for reliable Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) in environments where GNSS signals are unavailable.
In contrast to other alternative PNT solutions, NAL’s APNT receivers utilize the Iridium STL service, which transmits signals from low-Earth orbit (LEO) that are approximately 1,000 times more powerful than conventional GNSS signals, allowing for effective penetration through buildings and other areas where GNSS signals may be obstructed.
The iridium STL-enabled APNT receivers from NAL are notably beneficial for uncrewed systems, ensuring essential operations continue in regions where GPS or GNSS signals are either compromised or entirely absent. For these applications,VectorNav is employing its VN-210E GNSS-aided INS,which integrates a tactical-grade Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) with an L1/L2 GNSS receiver in a compact,board-mountable design.
Engineered for optimal modularity, the VN-210E features vectornav’s tightly integrated INS and includes four serial ports that facilitate simultaneous connections with various external PNT-aiding sources, such as NAL Research’s ALTM GEN2 Mini Iridium STL receiver. When these systems are combined,they deliver a high-frequency and continuous solution for position,velocity,and attitude—even in dynamic scenarios and environments lacking GNSS.
Both NAL Research and VectorNav are committed to co-developing innovative product solutions that merge VectorNav’s industrial- and tactical-grade INS with NAL Research’s Iridium STL receivers. Future developments will prioritize minimizing SWaP-C (size,weight,power,and cost),enhancing environmental durability,and ensuring compliance with MIL-STD standards for defense and aerospace sectors.
Robert Bills, president of NAL Research, remarked, “This extensive solution, born from our rapid collaboration with VectorNav, will introduce transformative innovations to the evolving APNT sector. Our partnership simplifies the integration of alternative APNT sources for our clients. We are eager to assist government and enterprise users in achieving operational excellence by enabling swift deployment of highly precise and dependable navigation solutions.”
Jakub Maslikowski, VP of Business Growth at VectorNav, noted, “The need for robust APNT solutions that can be produced at scale and support dynamic autonomous systems is escalating—especially within the critical maritime sector. This partnership with NAL Research will help realize the potential of LEO satellite PNT capabilities and enhance the resilience of the U.S. and allied nations in contested operational environments.”
Join VectorNav Technologies at booth #1941 during SOF Week in Tampa, FL, from May 5-8.
