Starlink - ARPAS UK

In February 2023, uAvionix began testing the first versions of Starlink’s antennas and connectivi ty, exploring the possibilities for advanced LEO-satellite-based command and control (C2) communications for small UAS. The Starlink results were encouraging, and we have continued our efforts throughout this past year.

As a leading provider of Command, Navigation, and Surveillance technologies for small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS), we have consistently promoted multi-modal connectivity solutions to support both assured C2 and high-bandwidth payload communications. By integrating various connectivity methods, we provide path and frequency diversity, ensuring reliable operation everywhere.

Today, uAvionix is pleased to highlight a significant step forward in their integration efforts with the successful completion of test flights using Starlink and uAvionix’s muLTElink airborne radio. The integration work continues their commitment to offering the best possible connectivity solutions for small UAS, and the recent flight tests demonstrated unprecedented connectivity for both C2 and payload communications, delivering data rates in the megabits per second with latencies below 100 milliseconds.

This milestone is an extension of our integration with L-band satellite connectivity solutions that have been implemented across various platforms to ensure assured C2 communications. By introducing Starlink to our connectivity suite, we will enhance our capability to provide both assured C2 and high-bandwidth payload communications, such as streaming video or ISR data, back to the operator. This integration further underscores our dedication to multi-modal solutions that combine path and frequency diversity, a principle we have long championed.

The achievement highlights the potential of Starlink to revolutionize UAS C2 communications and payload backhaul solutions, promising a new era of connectivity for uncrewed aerial systems.

Stay tuned for more updates as we delve into the technical details and comparative performance of the varying connectivity options for sUAS communications. This forthcoming analysis will offer deeper insights into the relative strengths and weaknesses of each connectivity type.

7 August 2024

L to R Michael Haigh from Comms Byte and Ayron Lockwood from Networx3 x 2

Networx3 UAV is using Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites to provide a live feed of its drone flights anywhere and everywhere in the world.

Access to the low orbit satellite internet service has revolutionised how Networx3 UAV’s team of five commercial drone pilots conduct client work.

Using Starlink, and the cloud-based drone admin system FlightHub2, the Networx3 UAV drone fleet can now beam back real-time video of flights from the UK’s most inaccessible places.

The new technology allows Networx3 UAV to work in locations such as remote quarries, culverts, sewers, isolated reservoirs and rural solar or wind farms without having to factor in patchy conventional internet access or ‘internet dead zones’.

Thanks to Networx3 UAV’s investment in Starlink and FlightHub2 there is now nowhere in the four nations from where live drone footage can’t be beamed into a client’s office, mobile phone, laptop or boardroom anywhere in the world.

With a Starlink dish mounted to the Networx3 UAV’s mobile control center van their drones connect to the 3,000- strong satellite network orbiting 550km above the Earth.

Networx3 UAV managing director Ian Ashworth, and commercial drone pilot, said: “Networx3 UAV is now operating at a level where very few drone operators can operate. We have invested heavily in this serious, expensive and complex tech and we can guarantee that our drones can beam back stills and video, in real-time, from the most far-flung and remote internet black spots anywhere in England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland.

“We’re really excited about the work we can now do in mine shafts, pipework, green energy plants and from mountain tops to deep valleys.

“We envisage clients watching their live stream and directing the pilot to particular points of interest or simply watching the flight unfold.”

The Starlink advanced satellite system has only been available in the UK since January 2021. It was designed, as a civilian program, to provide internet to undersupplied regions far from urban centers beaming internet connections to hard-to-reach places across the globe.

But recently Starlink has been a vital source of connectivity during Russia’s war in Ukraine. The satellite network has been used to connect Ukraine with the internet and help it win the drone war.

Stockport-based tech company Comms Byte worked with Networx3 UAV to complete the Starlink install.
Director Amjad Shakeel said: “Comms-Byte specialises in helping customers build and maintain IT infrastructure for different types of business situations so the Starlink install was one that we were eager to be involved with.

“It is an innovative, cutting-edge technology with new age, almost sci-fi-like, hardware. The solution allows Networx3 UAV to help its customers to see real-time information of live projects.”

To find out more visit www.networx3uav.co.uk.