Orbit SATCOM Secures $9.1M Israeli Defense Contract: Transforming Land-Based Communications

Orbit Communication Systems, a leading Israeli developer of advanced satellite communication solutions, has achieved a major milestone by securing its first substantial contract for land-based SATCOM applications. The Israeli Ministry of Defence (MoD) awarded the $9.1 million contract for the deployment of Orbit’s Multi-Purpose Terminals (MPT), specifically the MPT-30 and MPT-46, for both static and mobile land platforms. This marks a significant expansion for the company, which has historically dominated the maritime and airborne SATCOM markets.

Scheduled for delivery in 2025, the deal highlights Orbit’s strategic pivot towards providing resilient and adaptable SATCOM solutions for land forces. With over 4,000 systems already operational on naval vessels and aviation platforms, Orbit now sets its sights on enhancing connectivity and communications for ground-based military operations.

Bridging the Communication Gap: Why SATCOM is Vital for Land Forces

The MPT series offers unique advantages that align with evolving military needs. Line-of-sight (LOS) communication systems, reliant on VHF/UHF radios, are vulnerable to jamming and signal interference, particularly in contested environments. Orbit CEO Daniel Eshchar emphasized that modern combat scenarios, influenced by lessons from the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel's own defense operations, underscore the need for more resilient communication systems.

SATCOM systems like the MPT terminals provide a dependable alternative. Their resistance to jamming and ability to switch seamlessly between frequency bands and satellite constellations make them indispensable for critical military functions. From C4I (Command, Control, Communication, Computer, Intelligence) operations to remotely piloted vehicles, SATCOM ensures secure and uninterrupted communication links in complex terrains such as urban environments, mountains, or densely populated battlefields.

Eshchar also highlighted the systems’ future readiness, envisioning their use in autonomous land vehicles, where robust beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) communication will be crucial for both command and operational control.

Cutting-Edge Design for Tough Conditions

The MPT-30 and MPT-46 are engineered to withstand extreme conditions across air, sea, and land. With compact, lightweight designs—10 kg and 12 kg, respectively, excluding the radome and block upconverter (BUC)—these systems feature robust Ku- and Ka-band capabilities.

• Key Technical Highlights:
  • Azimuth Range: 360° continuous.
  • Elevation Range: 0° to 90°.
  • Pointing Accuracy: ~0.1° (static and mobile).
  • Signal Tracking Accuracy: Better than 0.15 dB RMS.
  • Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP):
    • MPT-30: Up to 52.0 dBW (Ka-band).
    • MPT-46: Up to 56.7 dBW (Ka-band).
  • Data Throughput: 126 Mbps download and 29 Mbps upload.

The systems are cybersecure, designed to meet MIL-STD and STANAG standards, and tested on in-house simulators replicating the most challenging operational conditions. Adaptations for land use included software modifications to enhance responsiveness over rough terrain, leveraging design insights from their naval and aerial counterparts.

Quick Deployment and International Appeal

One of Orbit's key innovations is the ease of installation. The MPT terminals are available in a roll-on/roll-off configuration, allowing them to be fitted to any compatible platform in just 20 minutes, assuming pre-installed cabling.

While this contract focuses on Israel’s defense platforms, Orbit is actively pursuing international markets. Demonstrations across Asia-Pacific and Europe are planned, with a successful showcase already conducted in Poland, attended by NATO delegations.

Expanding Horizons for Military Connectivity

The contract with the Israeli MoD is just the beginning of Orbit’s push to integrate SATCOM solutions into land forces worldwide. With connectivity becoming a cornerstone of modern warfare, the company’s multi-band, multi-orbit terminals are poised to play a pivotal role in ensuring operational superiority.

As land forces globally recognize the need for resilient, reliable, and versatile communication systems, Orbit's MPT terminals stand out as a game-changing solution. From securing the battlefield to enabling autonomous systems, these terminals are set to redefine the future of military connectivity.