Airline’s first Boeing 767 aircraft equipped with Cobham’s AVIATOR 300D and SB-Safety

Denmark and London, UK | November 16, 2017– Inmarsat, the world’s leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, and Cobham SATCOM, the leading manufacturer of satellite communications solutions, today announced that SB-Safety (SB-S) has entered service evaluation on the first United Airlines Boeing B767 aircraft.

The important milestone was achieved as part of a technology evaluation of Inmarsat’s next generation SB-S flight deck communications platform, which has been installed on United Airlines’ Boeing 767 aircraft with Cobham’s AVIATOR 300D satcom system. SB-S offers global, high-speed, secure connectivity for the flight deck, enabling powerful and flexible communications in real-time, enhancing airline safety, asset utilisation, security, and operations.

During the evaluation, United Airlines will deploy its aircraft equipped with SB-S in the highly congested North Atlantic airspace. It will use the new platform for communications and surveillance with Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) and Automatic Dependent Surveillance Contract (ADS-C) messaging. United Airlines’ evaluation of SB-S is part of the carrier’s ongoing commitment to best-in-class operations, safety and service.

In addition to capabilities of today’s cockpit satcom, SB-S introduces new, always on, always secure applications, which are available for United Airlines’ use. These include continual positional awareness for flight tracking, flight data streaming (Black Box in the Cloud) and real-time electronic flight bag applications, such as networked graphical weather. Other benefits of the service include operational efficiency, in the form of more fuel-efficient routes and the ability to transmit vital aircraft performance and positioning data in real time.

The AVIATOR 300D systems, which include Cobham’s compact and lightweight IGA-5001 Intermediate Gain Antenna to ensure a low profile on the fuselage, provide fast and reliable connectivity on the Inmarsat satellite network. As one of the latest additions to Cobham SATCOM’s established, innovative AVIATOR portfolio, further advantages include recurrent maintenance savings due to the integral high reliability of the underlying technology platform and weight savings (approximately 50 to 150 lbs) over traditional aviation satcom systems.

Chuck Stewart, United Airlines Chief Technical Pilot for Communications, said: “United is excited to have this powerful new capability in flight today. We look forward to seeing improved operational efficiencies with a fully connected flight deck, using the platform for improved communications and real-time updates that previously had to be done on the ground.”

Brian Anderson, Americas Air Transport Sales Manager for Cobham SATCOM, said: “We are delighted to have United Airlines utilising Cobham’s AVIATOR 300D satcom in support of SB-Safety in the North Atlantic Airspace. This marks an important milestone for the entire aviation industry. It has been a pleasure working with United Airlines as they bring the benefits of new technologies into the cockpit to improve both their communications and operations.”

Captain Mary McMillan, Inmarsat Aviation Vice President of Safety and Operational Services, said: “We are thrilled that United Airlines is taking advantage of the many benefits of Inmarsat’s SB-Safety. As an industry leader, United sees the value of next generation IP broadband in the cockpit and how it delivers operational savings and enhanced safety. This moves satcom from a safety utility to a true, strategic asset for aviation.”

United Airlines’ Boeing 767 aircraft to be equipped with Cobham’s AVIATOR 300D and Inmarsat’s SwiftBroadband-Safety

United Kingdom | June 14, 2017– Inmarsat, the world’s leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, and Cobham SATCOM, the leading manufacturer of satellite communications solutions, today announced that United Airlines will participate in a technology evaluation of SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S), Inmarsat’s next generation flight deck communications platform.

SB-S will be evaluated on four United Airlines’ Boeing 767 aircraft, which will be installed with Cobham’s AVIATOR 300D satcom system. It offers global, high-speed, secure connectivity for the flight deck. Enabling powerful and flexible communications with real-time inflight information, the service enhances airline safety, asset utilisation, security, and operations.

United Airlines’ evaluation of the IP-based broadband service is part of the aviation giant’s ongoing commitment to best-in-class operations, safety and service. During this evaluation, United Airlines will deploy its equipped planes in the highly congested North Atlantic airspace. It will use the new platform for communications and surveillance with Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) and Automatic Dependent Surveillance Contract (ADS-C) messaging.

SB-S also provides a range of ‘always on, always secure’ applications, which United Airlines will be able to use. These include continual positional awareness for flight tracking, flight data streaming (known as “Black Box in the Cloud”) and real-time electronic flight bag applications, such as networked graphical weather. Operational benefits include more fuel-efficient routes and the ability to transmit vital aircraft performance and positioning data in real time.

Installations of the AVIATOR 300D systems on United Airlines’ planes are scheduled to commence later this year. The systems include Cobham’s IGA-5001 Intermediate Gain Antenna and will use the AVIATOR 300D Supplemental Type Certificate developed by L2 Aviation.

Chuck Stewart, United Airlines Chief Technical Pilot for Communications, said: “United is excited about installing and using this powerful new communications capability as we expect to see it enhancing our operational efficiency, especially in places like the North Atlantic.”

Andy Beers, Director, Global Aero Sales, Cobham SATCOM, said: “We are excited about this latest opportunity to contribute to the ongoing evaluation of SwiftBroadband-Safety as it supports our development of communication technologies Cobham SATCOM is rolling out to meet the future needs of the aviation community, particularly our AVIATOR S Series next generation product line, designed specifically to leverage Inmarsat’s new SB-S services.”

Captain Mary McMillan, Inmarsat Aviation Vice President of Safety and Operational Services, said: “As a progressive and innovative airline, United is making an important move anticipating the future of aviation. With SB-Safety’s secure broadband platform, it will be able to benefit from the fully connected flight deck that delivers improved safety and security, better efficiency and optimised fleet performance.”

Terminal passed important data for BLOS UAV applications in independent work by AnsuR Technologies and Barnard Microsystems
AUVSI XPONENTIAL, Dallas, Texas | May 10, 2017– Cobham SATCOM has announced successful live video transmission trials over the AVIATOR UAV 200 low SWAP satcom terminal.

Working independently with AnsuR Technologies in Norway and Barnard Microsystems in the United Kingdom, the satcom terminal has passed strategically important video data, a great value multiplier for BLOS UAV operational scenarios.

Using Inmarsat’s recently launched SB-UAV service, both companies have passed good quality live video over what is considered a very low bandwidth link for this type of application.

Andrew Legg, Regional Sales Director for Cobham SATCOM, said: “Full HD video at 1 fps or 800 by 600 at 6 fps is a significant value and strategic enhancement for LALE UAV’s that would typically be flying blind when beyond the range of high bandwidth point to point links. This allows these small tactical UAVs to operate in mountainous areas or in long range out-and-back applications whilst offering the operator a massive advantage of real-time situational awareness. The ability to re-task the platform real-time is very important. It helps to drive costs down and mission efficiencies up.

“While these low resolution or low frame rate video transmissions will of course not meet all customer requirements, we have to remember that it is not the video technical specification that is important, it’s all about the content or information contained in the transmission and whether that adds value to the mission.”

The AVIATOR UAV 200 is a contended bandwidth 200 kbps all in one LRU solution operating on the Inmarsat SwiftBroadband network. With a single contract, no rain fade in L-band and global coverage excluding the poles, it leverages the proven reliability of the Inmarsat network to offer the lowest size, weight and power system of its type by a huge margin. Whether it is used for full C2, backup C2, sensor data, or imagery transfer, it is a game changer in the LALE connectivity marketplace. It consumes less than 28 Watts of power and weighs just 1.45kgs. With no ITAR restrictions, the unit is commercially available and shipping to customers globally today.

Harald Skinnemoen, Founder and CEO, AnsuR Technologies, said: “AnsuR Technologies has been developing software solutions for mission-critical operations for a decade, including flying the first UAV with the Cobham SB200 aero satcom terminal. With improved best-effort communication capacity over Inmarsat, and the ease of integrating it with our software, the AVIATOR UAV 200 terminal was exactly what we were looking for to successfully provide customers a long range photo and video communication capability via satellite even for UAVs under 25kg.”

Dr Joseph Barnard, Managing Director, Barnard Microsystems Limited, added: “Our technical staff installed the Cobham AVIATOR UAV 200 satcom terminal on our Panchito medium range Remotely Piloted Aircraft within five working days of receiving the unit, including the interfacing of the navigation information from the Panchito Flight Management Unit. Three working days later we relayed compressed video at 1 to 4 frames per second via the Cobham AVIATOR UAV 200 terminal using the Inmarsat SwiftBroadband satellite data relay service at data throughput rates from 110 kbit/sec to 190 kbit/sec, using the less expensive contested or shared service option.

“Our technical staff were impressed with the lightness, the low electrical power draw and the superb performance of the Cobham AVIATOR UAV 200 terminal, based on our experience with a range of other airborne and land based satcoms terminals. The Cobham AVIATOR UAV 200 is our satcom terminal of choice for our Panchito RPA, which is used in civilian mapping and monitoring applications, and as an Electronic Support Measures and Monitoring RPA in military applications.”

• Shenzhen Airlines to equip A320 aircraft as it prepares for China’s future rapid growth in passenger demand

April 27, 2017– Beginning May 2017, Shenzhen Airlines will launch its in-flight evaluation of SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S), Inmarsat’s next generation IP-based broadband service for the flight deck. The SB-S platform, which will be installed on Shenzhen’s Airbus 320 aircraft using Cobham avionics’ AVIATOR 300D hardware, will deliver powerful and flexible in-flight communications and secure, real-time, in-air information to enhance Shenzhen’s safety, security and operational capabilities – both in the air and on the ground.

The Shenzhen partnership is part of a joint venture between Inmarsat, Beijing Marine Communication & Navigation Company, Ltd. (MCN) and Aviation Data Communication Corporation (ADCC) to provide aviation safety services to the rapidly growing Chinese market. Under this partnership, MCN and ADCC will deliver satellite voice, ACARS (Aircraft Communications Addressing & Reporting System) and data services. MCN will serve as project manager for Shenzhen’s SB-S evaluation process.

In addition to compliance with the Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC) mandates CCAR 121 and AC-121, Shenzhen Airlines will focus its evaluation on three core SB-S satellite communication (satcom) capabilities, including:

• Satellite Voice (satvoice) Communications – Two-channel satellite-based services that enable faster and high-quality voice communication between the flight deck crew and its designated contacts on the ground, including air traffic controllers and airline operations personnel.
• Integral Global Flight Tracking – This enhanced, live tracking feature pinpoints an aircraft’s location through regular transmission of position reports. SB-S flight tracking enables the airline and Air Traffic Control (ATC) to know where the aircraft is and to understand its status in real time, which is essential for both safety and delivery of fuel-efficient flight.
• ACARS Over IP – Traditionally used to communicate with both the Airline Operations Centre and ATC, this short-text capability over IP is a prerequisite for FANS 1/A compliance in remote oceanic areas.

Shenzhen Airlines also will be able to take advantage of other SB-S platform features, including real-time electronic flight bag applications, such as networked graphical weather and, ultimately, flight data streaming (“Black Box in the Cloud”). And, in addition to providing critical flight safety solutions, its high-speed communications capabilities also allow SB-S to deliver operational savings to airlines in the form of reduced fuel costs, improved efficiency and enhanced security. A recent study by Helios showed that satellite communications has already delivered US$3 billion in benefits to airlines to date (see link below).

Through its SB-S evaluation, Shenzhen Airlines is preparing for China’s explosive growth in passenger demand, which, according the International Air Transport Association (IATA)*, is expected to more than double over the next 20 years. IATA also predicts that China will displace the United States as the world’s largest aviation market around 2024*. Much of this demand will be for international travel and Shenzhen is anticipating this demand by employing next generation satellite connectivity, which allows aircraft to travel in oceanic areas and across remote continental areas where terrestrial networks are not established. These satellite-based capabilities will allow Shenzhen to offer passengers a vastly wider range of service destinations that, until now, could not be realized due to the decades-old limitations of traditional, ground-based communications.

Captain Shao Bin, Vice President of Operations for Shenzhen Airlines said: “As China’s skies become more crowded and advanced flight-tracking capabilities become a necessity in the region’s airspace, Shenzhen wants to be at the forefront of this exciting next chapter of aviation history. We look forward to evaluating SwiftBroadband-Safety as a pioneering, satellite-based connectivity solution that will enable Shenzhen to offer enhanced safety, increased capacity and more efficient operations to our passengers – both in China and beyond.”

Song Zhen, Vice President of MCN, said: “As a leading maritime satellite operator in China, MCN is committed to providing safety communication services to China’s growing aviation industry. It is the first time that a Chinese aircraft will be equipped with the SB-S satcom technology platform, and we look forward to working with Inmarsat and other partners to provide the best service for Shenzhen Airlines in accordance with laws set forth by CAAC.”

Zhu Yanbo, Vice President of ADCC, said: “As the organization jointly established by Air Traffic Management Bureau of CAAC and the major airlines in China, we especially appreciate Shenzhen’s evaluation of SB-S, as they are our country’s first airline to do so. As the air-ground datalink service provider for China’s airspace, ADCC will work closely with MCN and Inmarsat to not only deliver SwiftBroadband-Safety’s trusted cockpit communication and flight tracking services, but also Globalink VHF ACARS and VDL M2 services to our aviation customers.”

Captain Mary McMillan, Vice President of Safety and Operational Services at Inmarsat’s Aviation business unit, said: “As China continues its path toward becoming the world’s largest passenger aviation nation, Shenzhen is making an important move to ensure it is ready to not only expand its domestic service offerings but also meet Chinese passengers’ growing demand for international travel. As the trusted provider of aviation safety and operational services, Inmarsat is excited to work with Shenzhen and our partners to understand how SB-S can optimise their flight deck and aircraft operations as they enter this exciting new era in Chinese aviation.”

Cheng-Yu Tang, General Manager, China Cobham SATCOM, said: “Shenzhen’s decision to evaluate SB-S demonstrates that one of the China’s largest airlines has full confidence in the performance of our AVIATOR 300D system and the Inmarsat SB-S platform. We are excited about this latest opportunity to contribute to the ongoing evaluation of SwiftBroadband-Safety as it also supports our development of communication technologies to meet the future needs of the aviation community.”

Next generation Cobham solution introduces significant reduction in total cost of ownership combined with industry leading high throughput, tracking accuracy and RF performance

Washington DC | March 6, 2017– Cobham has introduced a new disruptive technology platform for its expanded line of Sea Tel land-based tracking antennas. Designed as an enabler for the new breed of emerging high throughput LEO/MEO constellations that leverage cutting-edge CubeSat and SmallSat spacecraft, Cobham’s new tracking antennas lower the total cost of ownership by significantly reducing power consumption, in addition to delivering tangible savings on deployment and maintenance. Uniquely, Cobham’s next generation solution is delivered as a complete, integrated system including radome, antenna controller, feeds and customer specific RF (BUC and LNB) in addition to a built-in auto-tracking feature, improving link performance and contributing to higher throughput and availability of service for the end-user.

Currently available for L, S, C, X, Ku, Ka and E-band with antenna reflector sizes between 60 cm to 6 m, Cobham’s new Tracker range has re-written the land-based tracking antennas rulebook. Developed from the bottom up to merge over 20 years of Sea Tel land tracking antenna experience with Cobham’s cutting-edge maritime antenna stabilisation technology, the life-time cost savings facilitated by the new Tracker series supports established network operators and venture-funded start-ups to deliver even more competitive high-throughput satcom services for diverse users. Cobham has also addressed the traditional long lead time to delivery in the land-based tracking antenna segment, committing significant capacity to supporting mobility and growth in the LEO/MEO markets.

Headlining the unique new Sea Tel Tracker product line feature-set is Cobham’s new 3-Axis Zero Gravity technology for land antennas, which balances the entire system to deliver a step-change in power consumption for Cobham customers. The solution co-locates the antenna’s centre of gravity with its centre of rotation, resulting in an effortless track that requires almost no power. Regardless of size, all new Sea Tel Tracker antennas consume just 200 Watts, with further saving possible through the use of a 500-Watt back-up generator, compared to the >5KW back-up generator needed for competing antennas. A 90% reduction in capital outlay to provide power infrastructure can be achieved, while an 87%¹ power consumption saving is typical.

The Cobham development team has considered all aspects of the total cost of ownership for the new Sea Tel Tracker range resulting in even more savings, including on the cost of site preparation and antenna deployment. Traditional land tracking antennas of over five meters in size require substantial foundations (up to 15ft) in order to ensure the antenna can operate and survive in high winds as well as negate shift in the base over time as the foundation settles. Due to the perfect balance of the system, Cobham’s new tracking antennas can operate in winds up to 155 mph, installed on just a 12 inch thick concrete grade pad with minimal rebar. They can even be installed temporarily on a bed of gravel while still maintaining a strong link to the network. This is achieved by automatic calibration routines which compensate for the movement of the base over time.

“The significant time and personnel commitment required to assemble antenna systems greatly contributes to the cost of system installation,” said Kirby Nell, Business Manager Large VSAT, Cobham SATCOM.“Traditional land tracking systems can take several months to build the foundation, pull power cables, install automatic power supplies and finally install the precision aligned and levelled antennas. It’s a complex, costly task, but Cobham has developed a better and simpler approach. Sea Tel Tracker antennas can be built by two skilled technicians in a matter of days. We have a heritage of being able to assemble systems quickly and easily for the maritime market, which informs our approach to deployment of the Tracker range.”

Further life-time cost savings for LEO/MEO network operators have been achieved by simplifying and reducing the requirements for on-site maintenance. Uniquely designed as a single unit, housing all components in the radome itself, the Sea Tel Tracker product line provides industry-leading Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF), so fewer engineer visits are required during the antenna’s lifecycle. Cobham’s sophisticated system design and intelligent component selection has simplified the overall system architecture, so many standard maintenance tasks take less than an hour, while many service issues can be handled remotely.

“By renewing our land tracking antenna technology platform, we can provide satellite network operators the ability to achieve a massive reduction in their operational overheads,” adds Pete Blaney, Chief Engineer, Cobham SATCOM. “Lowering the total cost of ownership across the network development and operational stages to such a level, our new Sea Tel Tracker range is set to become a catalyst for the industry to develop and implement more disruptive services that are not only possible at a new price-point for the network owner but will also help to bring costs down for end-users, while increasing performance and availability of service.”

• Cobham SATCOM’s leading role in supplying next generation avionics and broadband communications to increase safety and optimise fleet performance reinforced by agreement to install AVIATOR 350D on new A321neo fleet

Lyngby, Denmark | December 5, 2016– Leading manufacturer of satellite communications solutions Cobham SATCOM has announced that its AVIATOR 350D system has been selected by Hawaiian Airlines (HAL) for installation on its new Airbus A321neo (new engine option) fleet.

The Cobham system, supporting Inmarsat’s IP-based SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) service, will deliver satellite connectivity to the cockpit for all voice and data applications on Hawaiian Airlines’ new single aisle aircraft and will connect to Cobham HGA-7001 High Gain antennas that are being line fit by Airbus.

The next generation IP-based broadband capabilities enabled by the Cobham solution enhance airline safety and operations through better communications and the availability of real-time, in-air information for pilots, crew and air traffic management.

This selection means that the AVIATOR 350D will be installed on the Hawaiian Airlines A321neo aircraft via the Avionics Support Group, Inc. (ASG) Supplemental Type Certification (STC) (FAA STC # ST04150AT), which has been granted for the A319, A320 and A321 families of aircraft.

The new agreement expands the current partnership between Hawaiian Airlines, Cobham, Rockwell Collins and Inmarsat, established during on-going in-flight evaluations of Cobham’s purpose-built AVIATOR solution and Inmarsat SB-S on-board Hawaiian Airlines’ Boeing 767-300 aircraft, as part of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) supervised technology evaluation.

Brian Anderson, Air Transport Sales Manager, Americas, Cobham SATCOM, said: “We are delighted to announce this selection by Hawaiian Airlines, which is the latest demonstration of how we are continuing to lead the way in the development of the next generation IP-based safety service SATCOM systems.

“The selection is a direct result of our team’s recent success with the Hawaiian B767 program for the FAA evaluations of SwiftBroadband-Safety service which is affirming the reliability and performance of the Cobham hardware and the Inmarsat’s satellite network.”

Captain Mary McMillan, Inmarsat Aviation Vice President of Safety and Operational Services, said: “Airlines with eyes on the big picture are seeking innovative ways to achieve efficiency gains and dynamically manage their fleets through the use of digital solutions. We are pleased that Hawaiian Airlines has experienced the benefits of SwiftBroadband-Safety delivered through Cobham advanced AVIATOR avionics and has now chosen to expand its commitment to high speed broadband in the flight deck with its A321neo’s. Clearly, the evaluation has been a great success.”

Both Cobham SATCOM’s next-generation AVIATOR S Series and SB-S have received a high level of industry support, including the recent selection by Airbus of the Cobham and Inmarsat solutions for its A320 and A330 aircraft families and the successful ongoing evaluations with Hawaiian Airlines.

Rockwell Collins provides the managed service between the Inmarsat ground stations that enable the aircraft to seamlessly communicate with HAL’s host systems, ground crews and regulatory agencies anywhere in the world without interruption.

SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) is Inmarsat’s next generation communications platform offering global, high-speed, secure IP connectivity for the flight deck. It represents a paradigm shift in aviation safety services, delivering “always on, always secure” applications such as flight data streaming (“Black Box in the Cloud”) and real-time Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) applications, including networked graphical weather.

• Validation of Supplemental Type Certificate (VSTC) for Cobham AVIATOR 300 on AirbusA320 series is the first time a SwiftBroadband ACARS-capable modem has received CAAC certification

Lyngby, Denmark | July 21, 2016– The Cobham SATCOM AVIATOR 300 system has received a Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) Validation of Supplemental Type Certificate (VSTC) for installation aboard the Airbus A320 series. It is the first time a SwiftBroadband ACARS (Aircraft Communication and Addressing Reporting System)-capable modem has received Chinese certification.

The significant Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) means that Chinese airlines and Chinese-registered aircraft can now order and install the Cobham solution on the Airbus aircraft A319, A320 and A321 to benefit from improved communications, connectivity, flight safety and operations on-board.

Enabling cockpit connectivity for ACARS over SwiftBroadband on the Airbus aircraft, AVIATOR 300 uses Inmarsat SwiftBroadband IP data and circuit-switched voice capabilities to provide services such as aircraft flight tracking information and Ethernet ports for connecting devices such as Aircraft Interface Devices (AIDs) and Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) for the pilots to obtain real-time information including graphical weather updates. AVIATOR 300 also has the bandwidth to send the real-time data of the aircraft health monitoring systems, such as engine monitoring.

Jianmin Cui, Director for Cobham SATCOM China Operations, said: “This certification for our AVIATOR 300 system is very important for the industry in this region and is also a significant milestone for Cobham as we can now offer Chinese airlines a low cost, compact Inmarsat satcom solution. It is a first for the industry, for Inmarsat and also for Cobham. This system provides Chinese airlines an optimal option to comply with the CAAC 4 minute-mandate with more capable data applications.

“The installation of our system on the Airbus aircraft will introduce many benefits for airlines. For example, airlines’ flight operations departments will have the ability to access aircraft data in real time from the ground while the aircraft is in flight, which will significantly improve flight safety and operational efficiencies.”

The VSTC is developed and owned by Avionics Support Group Inc (ASG) for the SwiftBroadband Unit and Delta G for the antenna.

The AVIATOR 300 system, which features the compact and lightweight Intermediate Gain Antenna IGA-5001 to ensure a low profile on the fuselage, provides for fast and reliable connectivity on the Inmarsat SwiftBroadband I-4 satellite network. The system supports high quality, low-cost voice calling and the full complement of data services and provides near global coverage, on the ground or in the air.

Further advantages include recurrent maintenance savings due to the high reliability of the AVIATOR system and recurrent weight savings (approximately 50 to 150lbs) over traditional legacy SATCOM systems.

The full Cobham SATCOM AVIATOR range includes the revolutionary AVIATOR S series, AVIATOR 700 and 700D, AVIATOR 350 with High Gain Antenna (HGA), AVIATOR 300 with IGA as well as the exceptionally compact and lightweight AVIATOR 200 with Low Gain Antenna (LGA).

• The world’s first dual mode BGAN/LTE M2M terminal is ready for service

Copenhagen, Denmark | April 22, 2016– Cobham SATCOM has started shipping its new EXPLORER 540 BGAN M2M terminal, following Inmarsat Class 2 Type Approval and Inmarsat BGAN M2M certification. EXPLORER 540 is the world’s first Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication terminal designed to operate on both Inmarsat BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) and LTE/3G/2G cellular networks.

EXPLORER 540 delivers real-time M2M communication for diverse applications including IP SCADA for data backhaul, asset tracking, real-time surveillance and remote telemetry. It brings with it the same operational reliability that has helped to establish EXPLORER as a leading brand within land mobile BGAN and VSAT satellite communication.

As the only M2M terminal to offer dual-mode operation, EXPLORER 540 provides unique installation flexibility and M2M data communication cost-control, as it ensures the most cost-effective communication service can be chosen depending on location of the installation and service quality/availability.

Securing continuity of M2M IP data transfer, which often originates in hard to reach, remote locations, dual-mode operation also delivers significant failover capabilities with automatic switching to the secondary service should EXPLORER 540 detect that its primary communication service is unavailable. The EXPLORER 540 LTE Modem is optional and integrates into the back of the EXPLORER 540 BGAN M2M terminal. The LTE modem will be introduced later this year.

“Resilience, cost-control and installation flexibility have driven development of EXPLORER 540, resulting in a terminal suitable for the most critical M2M networks, where availability of service in remote locations is crucial for operational continuity and safety,” said Henrik Nørrelykke, VP Land Business, Cobham SATCOM. “Inmarsat type approval ensures that M2M network operators can now choose a new state-of-the-art terminal that offers significant improvements over traditional technology.”

The EXPLORER 540 is also an Inmarsat Class 2 BGAN terminal including a long list of features first seen on the innovative EXPLORER 510. The included pole mount, durable aluminium casing and IP 66-rating make EXPLORER 540 a perfect choice for services such as BGAN Link.

• Next generation MSAT system integrates radio, cellular and satcom networks for wider, more reliable and cost effective coverage

Las Vegas, Nevada | March 21, 2016– Cobham SATCOM’s innovative new EXPLORER MSAT-G3 will be shown on the Cobham booth at IWCE 2016 (booth #1055). An innovative new solution, EXPLORER MSAT-G3 is an IP-based Push-To-Talk (PTT) radio communications system that uniquely supports Satellite/3G/LTE/LAN backhaul and Land Mobile Radio (LMR) integration to provide seamless voice communication in any situation.

EXPLORER MSAT-G3 is the next generation MSAT solution utilizing the power of the Ligado Networks (former LightSquared) SkyTerra-1 satellite and ViaSat’s low-latency, IP-based L-band Mobile Satellite Services network. In the field, the system enables critical interoperable communications among homeland security officials, law enforcement, emergency responders, and public safety officials from various departments and agencies across the USA. EXPLORER MSAT-G3 extends coverage by combining satellite links and the existing cellular based networks, which can reduce terrestrial infrastructure costs while introducing significantly improved communications availability in any environment, when on the move. It is designed to cost effectively expand and augment LMR systems and as such, is compatible with many different brands of LMR to support lower capital costs.

The previous generation MSAT Push-To-Talk and Telephony voice is a satellite only service, but the EXPLORER MSAT-G3 offers a wealth of additional benefits by extending MSAT Push–To-Talk capabilities to hybrid data networks. With no user intervention required, the system automatically routes voice and data traffic via the most reliable network available. The solution is based on Cobham SATCOM’s advanced EXPLORER Push-To-Talk system and the all-new EXPLORER 122, a compact comms-on-the-move satellite terminal developed to operate over the Ligado SkyTerra-1 satellite network.

EXPLORER MSAT-G3 looks and feels just like a standard LMR system, utilizing a simple Push-To-Talk Control Speaker Microphone. The system is also as easy to install as a standard LMR system. Uniquely, up to two USB cellular modems (optional) can be connected to the PTT terminal to enable two independent cellular network connections. In action, EXPLORER MSAT-G3’s sophisticated routing functionality automatically switches between the available networks, dynamically selecting the most suitable one based on quality and availability at any time. This all happens seamlessly without user intervention.

“The combination of the new generation MSAT, using the SkyTerra-1 satellite and ViaSat’s Managed Network Services, and EXPLORER MSAT-G3 will be a step change in communication capabilities for US government and emergency services,” said Henrik Nørrelykke, Vice President, Land Business, Cobham SATCOM. “By automatically and seamlessly routing voice and data communication over the best available network the system extends coverage and provides a more reliable connection. It essentially delivers more value and better performance in order to make people on the ground safer and more effective in their work.”

• EXPLORER 3075 series delivers unmatched performance for media users on Ka-band links

BVE 2016, ExCel London | February 22, 2016– Cobham SATCOM is showing its new series of Portable Manual Deploy Fly-Away VSAT antennas on service provider partner Europsat’s stand (D:31) at the BVE 2016 exhibition in London this week. The EXPLORER 3075 series comes in two variants; a KA-SAT version for EutelSat NewsSpotter and the latest model configured specifically for operation on the new Inmarsat Global Xpress (GX) Ka-band network.

EXPLORER 3075 antennas are built from a firm carbon fibre composite, which ensures high performance, while being extremely portable. All antennas in the series use the same 0.75m 4-piece reflector and materials, delivering a precise blend of lightweight design with strength and durability, ideally suited to the mobile nature of outside newsgathering and broadcasting.

While providing unmatched radio performance and service reliability on Inmarsat’s global and mobile GX satellite service, the new EXPLORER 3075GX variant also offers the flexibility to switch to the established KA-SAT based NewsSpotter service when using an optional ‘field conversion kit’. The possibility for easy switching from Inmarsat GX to NewsSpotter provides flexibility for newsgathering teams to ensure they can access the best available service.

Switching using the conversion kit is straightforward; the user simply changes the antenna feed chain using a ‘bicycle style’ quick release mechanism, meaning no tools or expertise are required. Within minutes, EXPLORER 3075GX can be transmitting on the alternative satellite, ensuring availability of a high bandwidth link to the studio and the Internet.

EXPLORER 3075GX delivers reliable, high quality live streaming/broadcasting in addition to remote videoconferencing and Internet cloud services including voice, radio, data and fax. The terminal has an embedded WLAN Access Point and four LAN interfaces, allowing for multiple wireless and wired connections.

“Like Eutelsat NewsSpotter, the Global Xpress satellite network will become a key resource for outside broadcasting and with EXPLORER 3075GX we have developed a sophisticated antenna system that ensures users can make the most of the high bandwidth Inmarsat’s new service offers,” explains Henrik Noerrelykke, Vice President, Land Mobile Business Development, Cobham SATCOM.

“Because EXPLORER 3075GX shares the same platform as the EXPLORER 3075 with a ViaSat eTRIA configured for the KA-SAT NewsSpotter service, we can offer users a new kind of flexibility that allows them to choose the best available service whilst on location, ensuring their ability to broadcast regardless of environment or service status,” adds Noerrelykke.

The EXPLORER 3075GX weighs approx. 22 kg and is transported in two rugged hard cases. Each case is airline checkable and is easy to carry. The EXPLORER 3075 for KA-SAT weighs approx. 11kg and comes in a single airline checkable rugged hard case.

• Leading aircraft manufacturer selects Cape Town-based supplier Cobham for the Best Performer Award in systems and equipment

Lyngby, Denmark | November 2, 2015– Cobham has received the Best Performer Award in systems and equipment, cabin and propulsion from Airbus in its Best in Class 2015 Partner Awards.

The award was presented to Cobham Antennas in Dourdan, which is part of Cobham Aerospace Communications, in recognition for its supply of satellite communication antennas to Airbus and specifically for ‘maturity, for cross-programmes communications antennas as well as sustainability of excellent performance’.

The Cobham antennas, which are designed and manufactured at Cobham SA’s facility in Westlake, Cape Town, are installed in all Airbus jetliners, from the 124-seat A319 to the 550-seat A380 superjumbos and the all new mid-size ultra-long haul A350 XWB airliner.

Airbus acknowledged eight suppliers’ outstanding contribution in the areas of aerostructure and material, systems & equipment – cabin and propulsion and general procurement. The awarded suppliers were selected by the Airbus Executive Committee in consultation with business stakeholders. Superior performances in areas such as pragmatic innovation, high quality product delivery and services as well as the importance of a strong collaborative business partnership qualify this year’s winners.

In 2014, Airbus spent more than €32.4 billion with over 7,200 direct suppliers worldwide.

Cobham SATCOM’s pioneering range of aeronautical standalone AVIATOR High Gain, Intermediate Gain and Low Gain antennas features an aerodynamic profile and a small footprint for optimum performance. From the AVIATOR HGA-7001 to the LGA-3000, this family of phased array fuselage and tail cap mount Inmarsat antennas is ideal for air transport aircraft, business aircraft, surveillance aircraft and helicopters.

• Unique technologies ensure high availability of connectivity services on land

Lyngby, Denmark | June 29, 2015– Cobham SATCOM is launching the latest innovative antenna system in its highly regarded EXPLORER portfolio for land ‘Comms-On-The-Pause’ users. Developed completely in-house by Cobham SATCOM, the new one meter EXPLORER 8100 Auto-Acquire Drive-Away antenna is designed to offer unparalleled performance, ensuring high quality connectivity on any Ku- and Ka- band networks. The terminal features genuine EXPLORER design, which is already established and proven with Cobham SATCOM’s highly regarded EXPLORER BGAN and GX terminals.

With EXPLORER 8100, Cobham SATCOM has focused on ultra-reliable connectivity even in situations where the vehicle is experiencing sudden movements or rocking on its suspension while the antenna is transmitting. This could be caused by high winds or more commonly, people stepping in or out of the vehicle. Particularly important for Ka-band usage, mechanical impacts as small as 0.3 degrees may lead to an immediate loss of signal. Cobham SATCOM introduces ‘Dynamic Pointing Correction’ from its stabilized Maritime Antennas on this new series of Land Comms-On-The-Pause VSAT antennas. Dynamic Pointing Correction ensures uninterrupted transmission when similar antennas would experience a complete loss of signal.

A state-of-the-art RTM carbon fiber reflector provides impeccable precision, and when combined with pointing correction technologies, it delivers the most accurate Drive-Away VSAT antenna on the market.

EXPLORER 8100 features industry-fast satellite acquisition with pointing achieved automatically in less than two minutes. The system is available in both Ka- and Ku-band configurations and works with all major satellite networks. A swappable feed system allows users to change frequency bands, ensuring they have full choice of what services to use throughout the lifetime of the antenna.

EXPLORER 8100 comes with built-in Wi-Fi for easy access to the terminal and the same Web-based user-interface developed for Cobham SATCOM’s cutting edge Inmarsat GX series of antennas. Once connected, EXPLORER 8100 provides high performance, continuous connectivity in the field, optimally supporting high definition video streaming, high throughput data transfer and tactical and emergency communication.

“EXPLORER 8100 really does raise-the-bar for Drive-Away antennas,” said Henrik Nørrelykke, VP Land Business, Cobham SATCOM. “Its revolutionary design makes it lightweight, strong and easier to install whilst the time it takes to get connected from a cold start sets a new industry standard. However, the fact that EXPLORER 8100 is the only Drive-Away antenna that can deliver highly accurate Dynamic Pointing Correction, and therefore significantly enhance availability of connectivity, positions it as the most advanced Drive-Away Land VSAT antenna available.”

Paris Air Show & Lyngby, Denmark | June 18, 2015– Initial test results have been described as ‘extremely promising’ following the first flights of a commercial aircraft transmitting ACARS data over SwiftBroadband using a Cobham SATCOM system.

Two weeks of evaluation flights have now been analysed after Hawaiian Airlines’ Boeing 767-300 became the first commercial airline to fly with Inmarsat’s SwiftBroadband safety service on June 3.

The Cobham AVIATOR 300D SwiftBroadband system was awarded the STC to allow for FANS 1/A+ and CPDLC communications as well as ATC voice over SwiftBroadband during the evaluation period.

“We are very happy with the performance of the Cobham SATCOM SB Safety service utilising the SwiftBroadband network – the results from the first two weeks of evaluation flights in scheduled service are extremely promising,” said Mary McMillan, VP, Safety and Operational Services, Inmarsat Aviation. “This marks a new era in oceanic ATC communications using small, lightweight Inmarsat satcom and proves that we are on track to meet our target for approvals in early 2016.”

Ken Rewick, vice president of flight operations for Hawaiian Airlines, stated: “We are very pleased with the results from our first evaluation flights using SwiftBroadband and look forward to building on the momentum of this industry-changing system.”

Kim Gram, vice president of Cobham SATCOM’s aeronautical business unit, commented: “These first flights with enabled SBB ACARS data are a significant milestone on our journey to the e-enabled flight deck, and we are very encouraged by the results so far.

“We believe the significantly smaller, lighter and easier to install hardware associated with the SBB ACARS data services, represented by our AVIATOR S series product range, will provide aircraft manufacturers and airlines with a route towards significant changes in operational efficiencies and, not least, in flight situation awareness and safety. We are excited about the future! ”

The multiple FAA (Federal Aviation Authority) STC for the Cobham SATCOM AVIATOR 300D was developed in conjunction with applicant L2 Consulting Services and secured following evaluations carried out in cooperation with Hawaiian Airlines (HAL), PARC CWG (FAA), ARINC/Rockwell Collins and Inmarsat. The certification is for its installation on Boeing 767-200, 300 and 300F aircraft.

The AVIATOR 200S airborne satcom features the exceptionally compact HELGA (combined HLD and Enhanced LGA) antenna which reduces the number of LRUs from three to two. This first Inmarsat Class 4 terminal by Cobham enables simultaneous transmission of safety and non-safety services over the same SwiftBroadband channel. The revolutionary new system will also afford space and weight savings.

International Paris Air Show, 15th to 21st June, Chalet 57 | Hall 2b E156

New certification received for Legacy 600/650 and Airbus A319
Lyngby, Denmark | June 16, 2015– Cobham SATCOM has increased its portfolio of Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) allowing installation of its AVIATOR SwiftBroadband solutions aboard various airframes.

New STCs have been received for Cobham’s AVIATOR SP (Special Purpose) system consisting of the SDU-7330-00X (Satellite Data Unit) on the Embraer Legacy 600 and 650 executive jets for multi-channel SwiftBroadband and also on the Airbus A319 for single channel or multi-channel SwiftBroadband with Cobham’s HGA-7001 high gain antenna.

The STCs were development in conjunction with joint holders 328design and Alamo.

Cobham’s AVIATOR 200 SwiftBroadband solution has a European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for its use aboard Pilatus PC-12 aircraft, in addition to an FAA STC aboard King Air models.

The Cobham AVIATOR systems have also been certified for several key aircraft including the Boeing 757, a range of Cessna aircraft, the Citation X, G200, Embraer 135 (Legacy 600/650) and Bombardier Challenger 300.

Kim Gram, VP Aeronautical, Cobham SATCOM, said: “We are pleased to continue developing STCs for installation on a growing number of airframes, enabling more users to take advantage of modern in-flight communications with the use of smart phones, personal tablets and laptops for a multitude of applications during all phases of flight.”

The full Cobham SATCOM AVIATOR range includes the future revolutionary AVIATOR S series as well as the current AVIATOR 700 and 700D, AVIATOR 350 with High Gain Antenna (HGA), AVIATOR 300 with IGA as well as the exceptionally compact and lightweight AVIATOR 200 with Low Gain Antenna (LGA).

Partnership with Cobham, Rockwell Collins and L2 Consulting Services
United Kingdom | June 9, 2015– Inmarsat (LSE: ISAT.L), the leading provider of global mobile satellite communications services, today announced that Hawaiian Airlines is now the first commercial airline to fly with its SwiftBroadband Safety service on its Boeing 767-300 fleet. The first flight took place on June 3 after the Supplemental Type Certificate for the service was awarded.

Highlights
• Enables the fast and efficient transfer of ‘Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System’ (ACARS) data messages using Inmarsat’s SwiftBroadband connectivity via a secure, dedicated ‘pipe’ to the cockpit
• Rockwell Collins’ ARINC service delivered through Cobham SATCOM AVIATOR terminal, installed by L2 Consulting Services
• An FAA Supplemental Type Certification allows the service to be used on Hawaiian Airlines Boeing 767-300 aircraft
• Service expected to be commercially available from Q1 2016

The SwiftBroadband-based service also supports flight deck voice services and provides dedicated IP connectivity to the cockpit, enabling access to new applications, which can increase safe and efficient operations in oceanic airspace, such as Electronic Flight Bags and flight data transmission. It can also transmit four-dimensional position reports, enabling airlines to meet the ICAO mandate for sub-15 minute tracking of all aircraft.

SwiftBroadband Safety will provide an enhanced version of Inmarsat’s Classic Aero service, enabling Air Navigation Service Providers and Air Traffic Management to receive and transmit data and messages, such as ‘Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Contract’ (ADS-C) and ‘Controller Pilot Datalink Communications’ (CPDLC), faster and more efficiently. More than 10,000 commercial aircraft currently use Inmarsat Classic Aero services for secure communications.

Captain Mary McMillan, Inmarsat Aviation’s Vice President for Safety and Operational Services, commented: “This first commercial flight of a SwiftBroadband Safety equipped aircraft will be a key milestone in the launch of this exciting new safety service. We are very proud that the trials have been conducted in collaboration with a leading airline like Hawaiian, and of our successful partnership with aviation technology pioneers Rockwell Collins, Cobham and L2.

“The service is part of our long-term commitment to continuous innovation and investment to meet the growing demand for quality broadband to the aircraft and the cockpit, and to improve safety and efficiency in oceanic airspace. This is the first time air navigation service providers are able to experience the performance of the terminal, using our leading satellite communications offering.”

Kim Gram, Vice President of Cobham SATCOM’s aeronautical business unit, said: “We are very pleased to announce this significant STC, which allows communication of ACARS data over SwiftBroadband, and means we can continue with the scheduled installation of the Cobham systems on the rest of the HAL fleet and enables us to measure the quality of the communication and present this information to the authorities to attain a formal approval of SBB as a safety service. SBB has previously only been a service for cabin entertainment, which is why this agreement with HAL is important in successfully proving the benefits of SBB satcom with ACARS data capability to the cockpit, such as increased bandwidth capabilities for air traffic control and operational capabilities to the cockpit. Using SwiftBroadband IP connectivity for all domains of the aircraft will provide safer and more efficient flights.”

“Rockwell Collins is proud to be involved in enabling another aviation first for flight safety as well as helping our vision of the connected aircraft become a reality,” said David Poltorak, Vice President, Aviation and Network Services for Rockwell Collins. “Beyond enhancing safety, the growth of broadband connectivity for the flight deck will provide exciting opportunities to bring new flight-enhancing operations and cockpit services to airlines. Many of these services will require significant amounts of data to be delivered to and from the aircraft, which we are well positioned to handle now and in the future.”

“SwiftBroadband Safety will have a significant impact on our flight operations,”said Ken Rewick, Vice President of flight operations for Hawaiian Airlines. “In addition to gaining an upgraded path to FANS (Future Air Navigation System), we’re also in a position to implement Electronic Flight Bag and Airline Operational Communication applications such as timely weather updates, reroutes and fuel planning over a broadband channel. As a long time Rockwell Collins customer, we are pleased to be using the ARINC aviation communications network to enable this important evaluation.”

Mark Lebovitz, president of L2 Consulting Services, said; “We are motivated to support improved aviation safety services, so we developed a Supplemental Type Certification to approve the new high speed Inmarsat datalink and position reporting communication option.”

The service now begins the phase of in-use monitoring allowing Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) to assess performance against the ICAO ‘GOLD’ FANS datalink standard. This assessment is made under the auspices of the FAA PARC group and, as further operators become equipped, in other ICAO regional groups. ESA provided essential support to the work programme in its development phase.

• Latest generation commercial airliner is flying equipped with Cobham’s market-leading low profile High Gain Antenna and Diplexer/Low Noise Amplifier

Lyngby, Denmark | April 14, 2015– Cobham SATCOM’s market-leading HGA-7001 High Gain Antenna is part of the connectivity solution for the world’s latest generation commercial airliner, the Airbus A350-900.

The low-profile antenna, plus Cobham SATCOM’s DAU-7060 DLNA (Diplexer/Low Noise Amplifier) and Floating Mounting Plate, are standard fit on the A350 XWB through a sub-contract with A350 XWB communications systems provider Rockwell Collins.

Cobham, a leading manufacturer of Inmarsat satellite communications systems, has delivered more than 50 antennas to date for the A350 XWB, which promises to set new standards in connected aircraft, customer experience and comfort, and operational efficiency. Deployed on a growing range of airframes, the HGA-7001 leads its field in drag reduction, weight, compactness and power requirements for aircraft connectivity systems.

Complying with the specific requirements of the A350 XWB, a special mounting plate was designed to ensure that the antenna does not impart stresses on the composite airframe structure.

The Airbus A350-900, which recently received Type Certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), as well as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for use by US airlines, has already secured 780 orders from 40 customers worldwide.

Kim Gram, vice president of Cobham SATCOM’s aeronautical business unit, said: “Cobham SATCOM is proud to be supplying equipment for this innovative, new generation aircraft featuring ambitious technologies which represent a step-change for airlines and passengers.

“It is further proof of the growing demand of the HGA-7001, which provides value benefits and cost savings, such as low drag weight, low induced fuselage stress and exceptional low angle coverage, all resulting in a higher performance Satcom system.”

Using the SwiftBroadband flexible IP connectivity standard, technology on-board the A350 XWB focuses on the key areas of flight operations, cabin operations, passenger and maintenance. This crucially places the aircraft at the centre of the entire maintenance, operations and ground-based operations picture and enables features such as Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs), for real-time weather graphics, as well as maintenance activities and other updates from the ground.

Passengers can experience state-of-the-art In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) systems, with access to satellite live television broadcasts or connecting flight information, and the ability to connect to their own Personal Electronic Devices, while connected crew also benefit from new digital features.

With its very high reliability, the AVIATOR HGA-7001 features phased-array technology that has proven its ‘fit and forget’ status with the air transport sector. Providing seamless coverage over the Inmarsat-defined hemisphere, the HGA-7001 is for use with Inmarsat Classic Aero (H/H+), Swift64 and SwiftBroadband Satcom systems for multi-channel service for a range of applications.

As well as providing connectivity for air traffic control, aircraft operation and EFBs for the cockpit, the HGA unit fulfils the demand for high data rates and broadband capability to offer fast and reliable connectivity on Inmarsat SwiftBroadband services for high quality, low-cost voice calling and the full complement of data services, supporting the use of Wi-Fi enabled devices such as laptops, tablets and smart phones.

Cobham’s DAU-7060 DLNA separates transmit and receive signals and amplifies the received signal. It ensures that specified signals in the transmit band from the HPA are transmitted to the antenna with minimal power leaks into the receive band low noise amplifier (LNA). It also filters unwanted harmonics generated in the HPA, providing protection against interference with other systems. Allowing flexible installation, it is ARINC-741 compliant and is compatible with Aero H/H+, Swift64 and SwiftBroadband systems.

U.S. avionics maker Rockwell Collins is supplying the communications, data network and landing system avionics packages for the Airbus A350 XWB, ensuring the management of voice and data communications of the aircraft, between pilots, flight crew, controllers and the airline company. The ARINC 781 satellite communications system features Safety Services and dual SwiftBroadband channel capabilities.

The Airbus A350-900 Type Certification was awarded following a stringent programme of certification trials which has taken its airframe and systems well beyond their design limits to ensure all airworthiness criteria are fully met.

• Low cost carrier will fly equipped with Cobham’s market-leading four-channel SwiftBroadband system

Lyngby, Denmark | April 14, 2015– Cobham SATCOM has started deliveries to supply 150 of its market-leading four-channel AVIATOR 1200SP SwiftBroadband system to AirAsia. Enabling a state-of-the-art In-Flight Entertainment solution, the system was selected as part of the Tune Box connectivity solution for the leading Asian Low Cost Carrier.

The system, which consists of the Satellite Data Unit SDU-7330-4, the High Power Amplifier HPA-7450, the Type F Diplexer/Low Noise Amplifier and Intermediate Gain Antenna IGA-5001, had been trialled by Tune Box and AirAsia since early 2014. After completing stringent customer assessment, the system was certified through a FAA STC on the AirAsia fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft.

Willem Kasselman, Air Transport Business Development Director of Cobham SATCOM’s aeronautical business unit, said: “Cobham SATCOM is proud to be supplying equipment for this innovative connectivity solution that will set AirAsia even further apart from its competitors.

“It is further proof of the growing market confidence in the Cobham satcom systems, which provides value benefits and cost savings, such as low drag weight, low induced fuselage stress and exceptional low elevation angle coverage, all resulting in a higher performance satcom system.”

Using the SwiftBroadband flexible IP connectivity, the roKKi service developed by Tune Box offers passengers a complete In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) system, with access to connecting flight information, hotel and car reservations as well as the ability to connect to their own Personal Electronic Devices.

Sami El Hadery, Executive Director of Tune Box, said: “We’re excited to be the first service provider to launch on-board Wi-Fi services with a four-channel SwiftBroadband system on a commercial airline. This four-channel system differentiates us from other airlines that use a single-channel SwiftBroadband system, as it allows us to support more passengers accessing Wi-Fi on board as well as additional next-generation revenue-generating services.”

• Innovation packed Sea Tel 9711 IMA System provides VSAT service flexibility for offshore vessels and platforms

Houston, Texas | November 5, 2014– To be shown for the first time at Oilcomm 2014, the new Sea Tel 9711 IMA (Integrated Maritime Antenna) System from Cobham SATCOM introduces new features designed to support satellite service providers to deliver reliable connectivity whilst providing cost-saving flexibility for end-users in the oil & gas sector.

The new Sea Tel 9711 IMA can operate on C-Band Circular or Linear or Ku-band X-pol or Co-pol. Unique to Sea Tel VSAT antennas, switching between VSAT bands is fully automatic and takes just a few seconds, due to sophisticated software and a precision mechanical system on the antenna itself. This means there is virtually no offline time for a vessel or platform’s connectivity when switching between VSAT bands and by eliminating the need to manually change feeds and re-balance the antenna, the cost of deploying a technician for the job can be saved.

“Developed at Cobham SATCOM’s Concord, California centre of excellence for large and bespoke antenna systems, the Sea Tel 9711 IMA is an innovative system ideal for the high-end networks used on advanced offshore vessels and platforms, where significant requirements for bandwidth and reliable communication have to be met. It is a reliable, flexible solution that forms the platform for intelligent operations within the realms of today’s digital oilfield,” says Jens Ewerling, Director, Maritime VSAT, Cobham SATCOM.

The Sea Tel 9711 IMA features a 2.4 meter radical offset antenna for both C-band and Ku-band operation. This offset design makes it the most efficient 2.4 meter antenna in the market today. The system utilizes the established Sea Tel IMA architecture, which features an Integrated Control Unit (ICU) as a single box electronic control solution to maintain the best and most efficient pointing accuracy.

With its extended web based secured user interface and built-in remote management capabilities, IMA offers easy integration into network management systems through its built-in Media Xchange Point (MXP). The Sea Tel 9711 IMA System is accessible from practically any internet enabled device, including mobile devices and features Secured Socket Layer (SSL) password protection and multi-level data analysis capability for ease of use and added security.

“Providing high performance and reliability on both C and Ku-band, the system ensures connectivity is always available regardless of environmental conditions or location. When high precipitation or moving a vessel or rig to a new location means changing bands, you no longer have to wait for your connectivity services to be manually re-activated, or pay for a technician to come and do it for you. It’s business as usual from the moment you arrive,” adds Darren Manning, Senior Product Manager, Maritime Products, Cobham SATCOM.

• Successful first installation of SwiftBroadband Safety

London, UK | August 14, 2014– Inmarsat, (LSE:ISAT.L), the leading provider of global mobile satellite communications services, has today announced the first successful installation and on-going trials of its ACARS1-capable SwiftBroadband (SB) Safety equipment on an Airbus A319.

SB Safety enables the fast, efficient transfer of ACARS data messages over the SwiftBroadband link. Installed in May this year, Inmarsat has been closely monitoring the system on board the aircraft, which has consistently surpassed performance expectations.

“This is the start of a revolution in communications for the flight deck. It shows the way forward for Future Air Navigation Systems (FANS) for the nearly 10,000 aircraft currently relying on our Inmarsat Classic Aero services, which were launched over 20 years ago,” said Leo Mondale, Inmarsat’s President of Aviation. “SB Safety provides prioritised voice and ACARS/FANS data transmission when an aircraft is out of reach of land-based communications, which is indispensable for aircraft flying over oceans.”

As well as ACARS, SB Safety also supports flight deck voice services and IP connectivity to the flight deck, enabling other flight operations and cockpit services, such as inflight updates to Electronic Flight Bags and Flight Data Recorder downloads. It also supports aircraft position reporting and tracking, and voice transmission for Air Traffic Management communications. A range of terminal variants is available, ensuring SB Safety can meet the requirements of all aircraft types, from the largest passenger types to business jets.

“A key point is that SB Safety provides a prioritised IP data pipe for the cockpit, for both security and continuity of service” continued Mondale. “This is particularly important for airlines that use SwiftBroadband for both safety services and cabin connectivity.”

The A319’s airborne hardware is Cobham’s AVIATOR 300D, part of a range which includes low-cost terminals with low weight and drag. SITA is the communications service provider and Satcom Direct is responsible for the on-board flight deck and cabin services. The entire system has undergone SITA’s Verification and Qualification (VAQ) testing procedure.

SB Safety is expected to achieve FANS approval in early 2016, following flight trials on commercial aircraft.

1The Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS) is a digital datalink system for the transmission of short messages between aircraft and ground stations via airband radio or satellite. It is a highly reliable text-based message system used extensively by the aviation industry.

Lyngby, Denmark | July 14, 2014– Cobham SATCOM’s AVIATOR 300 SwiftBroadband terminal has received a European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for its use aboard Boeing 757 aircraft.

The STC, developed by Cobham SATCOM partner Scandinavian Avionics, includes the installation and activation of the AVIATOR 300’s built-in Wi-Fi option, which offers access to an extensive range of communications capabilities.

Michael R Truelsen, President at Scandinavian Avionics, commented: “We are very pleased to complete the successful installation and testing of the AVIATOR 300 and to announce the award of the EASA STC on the Boeing 757.”

Kim Gram, VP Aeronautical, Cobham SATCOM, added: “We are delighted to report this STC for such an exceptionally well-known and versatile aircraft as the Boeing 757. We have many commercial customers already using Cobham antenna systems, but this STC for the Boeing 757 establishes AVIATOR SwiftBroadband as a significant communication option for commercial transport operators.

“With the AVIATOR 300 aboard, passengers are able to benefit from global wireless internet connectivity the minute they walk on board, enabling them to use smart phones, personal tablets and laptops for a multitude of applications during all phases of flight.”

The AVIATOR 300 features a compact and lightweight Intermediate Gain Antenna (IGA) to ensure a low profile on the fuselage. With data speeds up to 332 kbps, the system provides for fast and reliable connectivity on Inmarsat SwiftBroadband services, supporting high quality, low-cost voice calling and the full complement of data services.

The AVIATOR 300 is part of Cobham’s cutting-edge SwiftBroadband product portfolio and provides a cost effective solution for a wide range of airframes, with a full range of features and options. In addition to the Boeing 757, the system has been certified for several key aircraft including the Airbus 319, 320 and 321, Cessna 550, 550 Bravo and S550, Citation X, G200, Embraer 135 (Legacy 600/650) and Bombardier Challenger 300.

The full Cobham SATCOM AVIATOR range includes the revolutionary AVIATOR S series, AVIATOR 700 and 700D, AVIATOR 350 with High Gain Antenna (HGA), AVIATOR 300 with IGA as well as the exceptionally compact and lightweight AVIATOR 200 with Low Gain Antenna (LGA).

Lyngby, Denmark | June 20, 2013– Cobham will significantly strengthens its position in the airborne connectivity market with the development of the AVIATOR S series, a ground-breaking family of satellite communication systems being designed for future data-connected air transport aircraft ranging from regional turboprops to large jets.

Announced at the Paris Air Show, the new product line is the latest addition to the AVIATOR portfolio of airborne satellite communication systems, ranging from the AVIATOR 200 to the 700D. The development of this terminal and antenna product family is being driven by specifications formulated by the Air Transport Air-to-Ground-Communications working group, along with anticipated requirements for safety services and network domain separation for air traffic control.

The versatile S series will allow secure data communication for aircraft operation, maintenance and management services, as Cobham prepares for the technology shift to Internet Protocol (IP) data-connected aircraft in the future. Emphasizing Cobham’s commitment to the ‘connected aircraft’, the AVIATOR S series terminal and antenna product family will support a wide range of communication applications in both the cockpit and cabin, including cockpit voice dialling, in-flight calling and internet browsing. Cobham is working closely with Inmarsat to bring the new generation of airborne satellite communication to the market in the near future following final safety services approval of SwiftBroadband.

The unique ‘two box’ solution will be smaller, lighter and more cost effective than current generation satellite communication systems, and is relevant for all sizes of air transport aircrafts from regional to large oceanic crafts.

The first system to be made available will be the AVIATOR 200S – a unique, compact two LRU (Line Replacement Unit) satellite communication system which will exploit the unique features of the Inmarsat SwiftBroadband packet data communication system.

Walther Thygesen, vice president of Cobham SATCOM, said: “Cobham’s AVIATOR S series will significantly benefit aircraft operations by offering an extremely compact LRU and antenna configuration for safety services over SwiftBroadband, designed to the latest specifications for data segregation on the flight deck.”

Lyngby, Denmark | May 21, 2013– Cobham SATCOM’s AVIATOR 300 SwiftBroadband solution has received a European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for its use aboard a range of Cessna aircraft.

Developed by Cobham SATCOM partner and avionics specialist Scandinavian Avionics, the STC covers the Cessna 550, 550 Bravo and S550 and provides further opportunities for application to the Cessna 500, 552 and 560 series with separate certification approvals.

The STC for the light corporate jet includes the installation and activation of the AVIATOR 300’s built-in Wi-Fi option and use of the AVIATOR Wireless Handset, providing a compact and complete broadband solution for an extensive range of communication capabilities.

Michael R Truelsen, President at Scandinavian Avionics, said: “We see a big potential for this STC as the Cessna Citation series aircraft are very well represented in Europe. We have already had a huge interest for such installations so we are particularly pleased to announce that we have the STC available on the AVIATOR 300 for these Cessna models.

“This STC is significant because we are planning to expand the STC to cover the Cessna 500, 552 and 560 series as well. We can also use the data from this STC to cover the AVIATOR 200 system, with the Low Gain Antenna, if a customer wants an even smaller and lighter system.

“The AVIATOR 300 is very well suited to all business jet aircraft as the office in the sky functionality is key in the business jet market. Passengers will be able to use their own devices, such as tablets and smartphones, as the STC includes WiFi functionality in the cabin for use of the internet at rates up to 332 kbps, while the wireless handset is available for voice connectivity to the ground.”

The AVIATOR 300 features a compact and lightweight Intermediate Gain Antenna (IGA) to ensure a low profile on the fuselage. With data speeds up to 332 kbps, the system provides for fast and reliable connectivity on Inmarsat SwiftBroadband services, supporting high quality, low-cost voice calling and the full complement of data services.

Kim Gram, VP Aeronautical, Cobham SATCOM, added: “This STC is significant as it introduces many more business passengers to the benefits of global wireless Internet connectivity. The AVIATOR 300 will enable them to use smart phones, personal tablets and laptops for a multitude of applications during all phases of flight.”

The AVIATOR 300 is part of Cobham’s cutting-edge SwiftBroadband product portfolio and provides a cost effective solution for a wide range of airframes, with a full range of features and options. In addition to the Cessna aircraft, the system has been certified for several key aircraft including the Citation X, G200, Embraer 135 (Legacy 600/650) and Bombardier Challenger 300.

The full Cobham SATCOM AVIATOR range includes the AVIATOR 700 and 700D, AVIATOR 350 with High Gain Antenna (HGA), AVIATOR 300 with IGA as well as the exceptionally compact and lightweight AVIATOR 200 with Low Gain Antenna (LGA).

For further information please visit www.cobham.com/satcom.

– Cobham SATCOM unveils first BGAN terminal capable of supporting Inmarsat’s new high data rate streaming service

Lyngby, Denmark | April 4, 2013– The new EXPLORER 710 BGAN terminal, which will be unveiled by Cobham SATCOM at NAB 2013, is set to usher in a new era of high speed ultra-portable satellite streaming for broadcasting and other IP based industry applications.

EXPLORER 710 provides streaming rates over 650 kbps out of the box, when using the new high data rate streaming service to be introduced by Inmarsat in Q3 this year. Available in September 2013, EXPLORER 710 enables the fastest on-demand video streaming via satellite with guaranteed QoS.

As the world’s smallest and lightest Class 1 BGAN terminal and the first platform to make use of new high data rate streaming as standard, the EXPLORER 710 is positioned to support broadcasters in enhancing the quality of mobile outside broadcasting.

“With EXPLORER 710, we have developed the most advanced and smallest Class 1 terminal to date,” comments Walther Thygesen, Head of Cobham SATCOM. “We are proud that the first EXPLORER fully developed under Cobham SATCOM offers such a significant performance boost for users.”

Continuing the tradition of technology leadership started when the EXPLORER team (then as part of Thrane & Thrane) introduced its first BGAN terminal in 2005, EXPLORER 710 also includes several advanced new features, including the ability to bond the signals from multiple terminals via Ethernet and achieve IP streaming rate of 1 Mbps or even higher.

EXPLORER 710 also introduces Smart Phone apps to the world of BGAN connectivity, enabling users to connect their own devices for voice calling and connectivity. Other features include a large LED display, which facilitates set-up and configuration without being connected to a PC, Smart Phone or tablet.

“Our new high data rate streaming service and the ability to cascade multiple devices is especially important for broadcasters as it provides the means to improve transmission quality and speed up content delivery to the station,” comments Martin Turner, Director of Media, Inmarsat. “The EXPLORER family is already proven for broadcasting applications and we are expecting EXPLORER 710 to make best use of our revolutionary new service.”

Visitors to NAB 2013 can find out more about EXPLORER 710, the new high data rate streaming service and all the new features on the Cobham SATCOM booth (OE1100) and Inmarsat booth (SU9718).