Tactical communications via LEO satellites to be demonstrated by Hughes Network Systems and OneWeb for AFRL
NewsMay 05, 2021
WASHINGTON. Satellite provider Hughes Network Systems and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet company OneWeb have been chosen by the U.S. Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) to demonstrate managed LEO satellite communications (SATCOM) services to connect the Arctic region to sites around the globe and facilitate tactical communications.
Under the terms of the contract, Hughes will test and implement end-to-end services on the OneWeb system between selected U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) locations, which the company says is the initial step toward harnessing the power of LEO satellites for high-speed, low-latency broadband access in the Arctic.
Dylan Browne, Head of Government Services with OneWeb, said of the AFRL contract: “The OneWeb constellation has been designed to enable low-latency broadband access across the globe, allowing connectivity in previously unreached areas -- a capability that is ideal for tactical, multidomain operations in the polar region and beyond. Working together with Hughes, we will bridge the gap in connectivity for NORTHCOM with an interoperable and secure solution.”
