Gilat Satellite Networks will be showcasing its new lightweight integrated airborne satellite communications solution for UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) at LAAD 2013, taking place April 9-12 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Weighing only 22 lb (10.5 kg) and capable of transmitting 1Mbps of IP-based data, Gilat's UAV solution is comprised of a ruggedized spread spectrum satellite modem; a two-way, on-the-move, flat panel tracking antenna; and a compact 40W Ku-band block up-converter (BUC) and power amplifier.

The tightly integrated solution provides a lightweight, compact and low-power terminal that is ideal for airborne applications - and can be tailored to meet varied end-user specifications and requirements. The miniature dimensions of the solution allow BLoS (Beyond Line of Sight) operations for very small UAV platforms.

According to Gidi Talmor, RVP Defense International Sales at Gilat: "The UAVs being used for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), as well as Customs and Border Protection (CBP), are becoming increasingly smaller in order to enable easier navigation and longer flight times. As such, they require the smallest, lightest, and lowest possible power consuming communications solutions."

"In response to this need, we developed our system featuring one of the industry's smallest and most compact aerial solutions in its category. The system will be on display at the upcoming LAAD exhibition, and we invite everyone to visit our booth for a closer look at this unique solution," added Mr Talmor.

The UAV terminal utilizes commercial, geostationary satellite capacity to provide full-duplex satellite communication, linking the UAV to its remote control facility. The forward link provides command and control capabilities, while the return link transfers sensor data.

The terminal provides spectrum-efficient IP connectivity, adaptive in real time to varying link conditions, and operational in temperatures ranging from -40 to +60 Celsius. Built-in web and SNMP-based control enable remote management.

Gilat will also be showcasing its MLT-1000 at the show. The MLT-1000 military satellite modem is a fast-to-deploy, easy-to-operate, ruggedized military modem. Setting a new standard for mission flexibility, MLT-1000 delivers high-speed satellite communications for on- the-move, stationary, point-to-point (SCPC), and point-to-multipoint (managed MCPC) operations.

Additional Gilat products being presented:
+ Gilat's RaySat series of low-profile, in-motion, two-way antennas for mobile communications-on-the-move (COTM). Compact, aerodynamic, and vehicle-mounted, RaySat antennas deliver mission-critical data, voice, and video for secure, real-time information flow.

+ Gilati:s Wavestream power amplifiers and BUCs: including airborne qualified military and commercial AeroStream Transceiver; 80W and 200W X-band BUCs, 25W and 40W Ka-band Matchbox BUCs, and Ku-band Deck Power Amplifier.

Gilat will be showcasing and presenting its products at the Israel Pavilion, Hall 4, Stand I.30a.