Iridium has given Skytrac’s SDL-350 satcom terminal the green light to start providing airborne connectivity via the Iridium Certus network, which runs on the satellite operator’s Next constellation.
The SDL-350 will provide global L-band connectivity at speeds of up to 704 kbps, which is enough to support video conferencing, data streaming, and other bandwidth-intensive downlinks. It can also support data-driven proactive maintenance solutions and deliver graphical weather data streaming in the flight deck.
“When we commenced development of the SDL-350, we recognized the growing demand for low latency, truly global broadband satellite communications in a small, lightweight form factor,” said Gilles Bessens, v-p of engineering at Skytrac. “With the official nod of approval from Iridium, we can now provide platforms such as fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, UAVs, and UAMs with up to 704 kbps for a variety of industry applications.”
According to Skytrac, the satcom system is ideal for just about any type of aircraft, with its small size, light weight, and low power consumption. The company says it has already secured launch customers in various aviation segments, including air medical, law enforcement, search and rescue, urban air mobility, and business aviation.