Fargo Jet Center formed a strategic partnership with satellite communications technologist Stellar Blu Solutions to boost special-mission aircraft connectivity capabilities. Through the collaboration, the companies have developed an aircraft testbed modified with Stellar Blu’s Sidewinder, an electronically steered antenna-based satcom terminal that will support intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) activities. Fargo Jet installed a Stellar Blu Sidewinder antenna on a Cessna Citation Encore+.
The project will involve global demonstrations and testing of advanced ISR capabilities via multi-network satellite connectivity services using Stellar Blu’s Sidewinder platform. Replacing traditional high-drag mechanical gimbal-based directional antennas and limited line-of-sight systems, the installation will showcase connectivity capabilities such as high-definition video streaming to and from the aircraft. The partnership has secured ISR contracts on the Bombardier Challenger and de Havilland DHC-8 platforms.
"We are excited to partner with Stellar Blu, bringing together our expertise and innovative solutions," said Justin Ladner, who is heading up special mission programs at Fargo Jet Center. "This collaboration will enhance our ISR program offerings and pave the way for future advancements in special mission aircraft."
"From the beginning, we believed Sidewinder's development would lead to additional partnership opportunities," added Stellar Blu CEO Tracy Trent. "Fargo Jet Center's focus on the global ISR and special mission fleet complements our partnerships in commercial aviation and further underscores the unmatched performance, flexibility, and value Sidewinder brings."