Airbus Defence and Space teams up with Hughes Network Systems, LLC. for new ultra-compact and lightweight X-band satellite terminal

Smallest X-band terminal service available, ideal for tactical military environments

MUNICH, 4-11-2014 — /EuropaWire/ — Airbus Defence and Space has chosen Hughes Network Systems, LLC. as its terminal development partner for a new ultra-compact and lightweight X-band satellite terminal for a new service named XeBRA (Zee-brah). Utilizing Hughes’ innovative modem and waveform technology, the less than 12 lbs terminal provides an ultra-lightweight portable voice and data capability suitable for tactical military environments.

Key to service delivery is the use of Airbus Defence and Space’s global X-band military communications satellite system Skynet whose unique features enable superior mobility with all the security benefits of X-band. “The high power and unique beam forming capabilities of our four Skynet 5 satellites mean that we can provide reliable and secure high broadband speed X-band services to small terminals. With this new small proven X-band terminal from Hughes we can enhance the mobility of users in the field,” said Colin Paynter, Head of Airbus Defence and Space UK. The terminal is the first of its kind and ideal for transmitting full motion video via secure remote access. At less than 5.4 kg (12 lbs) in weight and approximately 8 x 258 x 23 centimetres (3 x 10 x 9 inches) in size, the terminal can deliver up to 512 kbps through the Skynet 5 system, which is enough to transmit high quality video conferencing or online streaming services. It is easily stowable and man-portable for transport on foot for Communications on the Pause (COTP) operations.

“We are excited about working with Airbus Defence and Space and applying Hughes’ innovations in modem and packaging technology to this ground-breaking service,” said Rick Lober, Vice President and General Manager of Hughes Defense and Intelligence Systems Division.

The Hughes terminal is highly reliable and can operate with standard military battery packs. Satellite pointing and acquisition are easily achieved using a built in LCD screen and adjustable stand which allows the terminal to maintain connectivity and throughput in harsh environmental conditions.

Find out more about XeBRA at Global MilSatCom on booth 23 for Airbus Defence and Space and booth 13 for Hughes.

About Airbus Defence and Space
Airbus Defence and Space is a division of Airbus Group formed by combining the business activities of Cassidian, Astrium and Airbus Military. The new division is Europe’s number one defence and space enterprise, the second largest space business worldwide and among the top ten global defence enterprises. It employs some 40,000 employees generating revenues of approximately €14 billion per year.

Contact

Knut Natvig
+47 48 030 911
knut.natvig@astrium.eads.net

Jeremy Close
+44 77 665 365 72
jeremy.close@astrium.eads.net