Hughes Network Systems, LLC, renowned for its five-decade expertise in satellite and multi-transport technologies, along with OneWeb, a pioneer in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications, have been selected by the U.S. Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) for an ambitious project. This initiative involves demonstrating managed LEO satellite communications (SATCOM) services to enhance connectivity in the Arctic region with global reach.
Hughes and OneWeb Collaborate on Arctic Connectivity
Under this agreement, Hughes will implement and test these comprehensive services using the OneWeb satellite system, focusing initially on select U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) locations. This marks a significant step toward utilizing LEO satellites for delivering high-speed, low-latency broadband access in the remote Arctic area.
Rick Lober, vice president and general manager of the Defense and Intelligence Systems Division at Hughes, stated, "This opportunity reinforces the relationship between Hughes and the U.S. Air Force to ensure resilient, flexible SATCOM networks for tactical, multi-domain operations." He expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with OneWeb to bring LEO innovation to military SATCOM, particularly in the strategically important Arctic region where connectivity has traditionally been scarce.
OneWeb's Global LEO Satellite Network
OneWeb's satellite constellation is meticulously designed to provide low-latency broadband services worldwide, including formerly inaccessible regions. Dylan Browne, Head of Government Services at OneWeb, emphasized the advantages of this project, saying, "Working together with Hughes, we will bridge the gap in connectivity for NORTHCOM with an interoperable and secure solution."
Advanced Terminals for Seamless Connectivity
Hughes, as the primary contractor, will lead the adaptation, integration, testing, and ongoing management of this service demonstration. This collaboration involves Intellian, who is tasked with developing user terminals for the OneWeb network. These new Intellian terminals are engineered for easy installation and will leverage advanced technology to provide cost-effective access to OneWeb's high bandwidth, low-latency connectivity.
Supporting the Arctic with Advanced Infrastructure
Through a separate agreement, Hughes is also responsible for producing the gateway equipment and user terminal core module, reinforcing its role in delivering high-speed, low-latency services in regions above the 50th parallel North. This initiative is part of the U.S. Air Force's Defense Experimentation Using the Commercial Space Internet (DEUCSI) program.
Extending Coverage with OneWeb's Satellite Network
OneWeb's network is tailored for comprehensive global coverage, making it particularly effective for delivering vital connectivity services to the Arctic. With 182 satellites launched thus far and more planned throughout 2021, OneWeb aims to ensure coverage to the 50th parallel North and beyond, establishing secure communication capabilities in regions that have been underserved until now.
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