Smiths antenna system receives Inmarsat approval

Smiths Interconnect has announced that its KaStream 5000 MK II antenna system has received Inmarsat type approval for use over the Inmarsat Global Xpress network.

The lightweight KaStream 5000 MK II antenna system is a fully integrated solution that is optimised for use over the Inmarsat Global Xpress Ka-band network and supports both commercial and military modems. It can be used in tail-mount, hatch-mount and roll-on roll-off installations combining the Radio Frequency (RF) electronics, antenna aperture and positioning system in a single Line Replaceable Unit (LRU). This wideband, high-throughput terminal features a 12-inch diameter aperture and weighs less than 11.4kg.

Using a Global Xpress subscription – SATCOM as a Service – the terminal provides always-available access to high-throughput, reliable, secure connectivity, anytime and anywhere. Operation on Inmarsat’s military Ka-band steerable beam ensures interoperability with military satellite systems, delivering redundancy, protection, scalability and global portability.

Global Xpress is the world’s first and only globally available, seamless, mobile, wideband SATCOM service. In US government operation since July 2014, Global Xpress has established itself as the gold standard for reliable communications across land, air and sea for assured mobile connectivity and compatibility with government satellite systems.

“Our government customers demand commercial and military Ka-band access on aeronautical platforms. This announcement demonstrates our commitment to meeting this need by responding with Global Xpress’ commercial and mil-Ka terminals for users operating across multiple environments. We are pleased to work with Smiths Interconnect to expand our offerings with the lightweight KaStream 5000 antenna system, which is compatible with MILSATCOM and enables Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) connectivity for a range of Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions,” said Steve Gizinski, chief technology officer, Inmarsat Government.

“Our KaStream 5000 MK II broadband antenna system is truly unique, in the market, as it offers access to global wideband commercial and military networks. We are very pleased to be partnering with Inmarsat to offer fast, reliable and efficient connectivity on and off the aircraft worldwide,” said Ralph DeMarco, vice-president of business development and sales at Smiths Interconnect.