Viasat is now shipping its new Ka-band Global Aero Terminal, the GAT-5518, which provides in-flight, high-speed connectivity for aircraft ranging in size from unmanned aerial vehicles to business jets. According to Viasat, the compact terminal delivers the “industry’s highest data rates” for an 18-inch antenna, allowing high-bandwidth applications.
For business jets, the GAT-5518 allows for onboard live video teleconferencing, voice calls, corporate VPN access, web browsing, audio/video, and live TV streaming, among others. It can also be used to meet various requirements for government/military-operated UAVs and fixed-wing aircraft such as performing real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; MedEvac and telemedicine services; search and rescue; and border and maritime surveillance.
“We’re focused on delivering advanced antenna systems that meet in-flight connectivity requirements across multiple airframes and end-user types,” said Viasat antenna systems general manager Kent Leka.
The GAT-5518, which recently completed FAA D0-160G certification, includes a two-axis steerable, two-way Ka-band antenna with an integrated antenna control unit, an antenna power supply unit, and a modem. Its antenna can be tail, fuselage, or hatch-mounted.