Your radio transmitter in space
The service is implemented using a single hop through an Inmarsat-4 satellite via directly connected L-band uplinks and downlinks. This provides you with the same experience as UHF satellite communications (satcom), but through a more cost-effective satellite channel.
Since the system directly links L-band uplink and downlink signals, it is not necessary for you to provide any fixed infrastructure to support the service.
Use existing equipment
L-TAC uses the same tactical radios as UHF satcom, but instead of connecting these radios to a UHF antenna, they are connected to an L-band antenna through a small frequency converter unit. This allows you to operate security-accredited equipment over L-band satellite connections using the same interoperable waveforms that are supporting you in the UHF or VHF bands.
Military customer challenge
Military users need to exercise command and control of widely dispersed forces in austere environments without the delay of deploying terrestrial infrastructure or the operational burden of protecting and sustaining them. UHF TACSAT is rare and difficult to access at short notice. Users need an enhanced service immediately.
Requirement
Increase the number of TACSAT channels available to users for voice and data communications. Allow netted voice and data for an all-informed network on-the-move, on-the-pause or at-the-halt using existing radios, whilst maintaining national crypto.
Solution
The service is implemented using a single hop through Inmarsat’s satellite system via directly connected L-band uplinks and downlinks, giving users the same experience as UHF and VHF communications through our highly resilient L-band satellite channels. The service supports military and civilian operations for aviation, maritime, vehicle, man pack and fixed ops room applications.