NewSpace Research and Technologies Successfully Tests Long-Range SatCom Link for C4I Functions

In a remarkable feat of innovation, NewSpace Research and Technologies (NRT) has successfully tested a long-range satellite communication (SatCom) link for Command, Control, Communication, Computing, and Intelligence (C4I) functions of a drone swarm. This pioneering test marks a significant advancement in drone communication systems, setting a new benchmark for the industry.

The test, conducted in the challenging terrain of Ladakh at an altitude of 4200 meters, showcased the system's robust Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) connectivity. This crucial capability enables a drone swarm to maintain continuous communication with a satellite network and a remote ground control station (GCS), ensuring reliable connectivity across the globe, excluding the polar regions. The mission was meticulously planned, executed, and monitored from NRT's headquarters in Bengaluru, over 3000 kilometers away, demonstrating the system’s ability to function under extreme conditions.

One of the most impressive aspects of this test was the seamless communication maintained throughout the mission. The SatCom link facilitated uninterrupted telemetry and payload data transfer from the drone swarm, exhibiting minimal latency. This ensured real-time data transmission and command execution, which are critical for the effective operation of drone swarms.

The successful demonstration of this SatCom link paves the way for remote BLOS operations of drone swarms across India. It significantly enhances mission resilience in contested environments, providing a reliable and secure communication solution that is crucial for modern military and surveillance operations. The tested SatCom network supports multiple users at various locations, leveraging encrypted communication links to enhance operational efficiency and decision-making speed by closing the OODA (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) loop more rapidly.

NRT's achievement in this test not only underscores their technological prowess but also sets a new standard for the future of drone communication systems. This innovation is poised to revolutionize how drone swarms are deployed and managed, offering unprecedented capabilities for military and civilian applications alike. With this groundbreaking technology, NRT is leading the way in developing advanced solutions that meet the growing demands of modern warfare and surveillance operations.