Executive Summary
Escalating geopolitical tensions are accelerating demand for persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions in contested environments. Small tactical unmanned aircraft systems (STUAS) provide flexible, rapidly deployable, and cost-effective ISR where larger medium altitude long-endurance (MALE) platforms may be impractical. STUAS missions increasingly require persistent beyond line of sight (BLoS) connectivity via SATCOM across GEO and NGSO (LEO/MEO) networks. Electronically steerable array (ESA) terminals enable compact, reliable, uninterrupted satellite links on size/weight/power constrained UAVs and support end-to-end architectures including ground terminals.
To accurately and successfully accomplish the growing STUAS missions, persistent beyond line of sight (BLoS) connectivity, powered by satellite communications (SATCOM) is a must. In addition to the geostationary orbit (GEO) we are now seeing the use of low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO) networks, which provide significantly lower latency and high-bandwidth links.
Concurrently, advancements in technology for ESA terminals are revolutionizing the design and capabilities of STUAS UAVs. These lightweight, compact antennas allow for electronic beam steering, enabling agile, uninterrupted satellite links without cumbersome mechanical components.
The blog concludes with the advantage of an end-to-end multi-orbit solution to maximize the benefits of long endurance, wide-area coverage, and the ability to operate in
contested remote environments without direct visual contact.
When considering SATCOM solutions for UAVs it is important to address also the ground-based side of the link, i.e. the satcom terminal / Earth station that connects the ground control station (GCS) to the UAV via a satellite link. This terminal can be either fixed, portable, or transportable. The comprehensive end-to-end BLoS solution enabled by multi-orbit satellite communication positions ESA-based STUAS as an indispensable tool for ISR operations. Command and sensor data-flow remains resilient during maneuver and handovers resulting in more reliable tasking, faster decisions, and safer operations.
STUAS Market Benefits from SATCOM and ESA Technology
As defense operations become increasingly complex, the demand for Small Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems is rising at an unparalleled pace. These Group 2-3 UAVs bridge the gap between quick-launched drones and larger, strategic aerial platforms. These UAVs offer unmatched flexibility, runway independence, rapid deployment, and cost-effectiveness for a wide range of assignments with lasting endurance of 20+ hours.
STUAS UAVs require BLoS connectivity enabled by SATCOM for long-range missions of >1000km by overcoming Earth curvature limitations and terrain masking. This persistent BLoS connectivity ensures real-time sensor data transmission, so ISR information is swiftly delivered to decision-makers on the ground. BLoS SATCOM offers greater command flexibility and multi-domain Command, Control and Communications (C3) integration, supporting air, ground, and naval platforms. SATCOM further enables global C3 for UAVs allowing seamless transfer of UAV control between ground stations and facilitating “anywhere to anywhere” C3 operations.
STUAS UAVs powered by flat panel ESA terminals stand out as critical for next generation defense strategies. They allow maintaining seamless satellite connectivity during high-speed maneuver and in dynamic operational environments, where agility and uninterrupted data-flow are paramount. The ESA terminal represents a transformative leap over expensive mechanical terminals, offering a suite of advantages. ESA technology utilizes solid-state electronics to rapidly and precisely steer antenna beams without any mechanical moving parts, dramatically reducing price and maintenance needs, and enhancing reliability.
The ongoing trend of UAV miniaturization demand solutions that maximize performance while minimizing size and weight. ESA terminals are ultra-compact, with a lightweight form factor further unlocking new possibilities for UAV design. Low SWAP ESA frees up valuable space and payload capacity for mission-critical sensors, or extended fuel reserves. Their low-profile form factor also minimizes drag, which is crucial for maximizing endurance and operational range. By eliminating bulky mechanical components, ESA terminals allow UAV designers to further reduce airframe dimensions and boost aerodynamic effciency. This makes it possible for even the smallest tactical UAVs to achieve robust, long-range BLoS connectivity and operate effectively in complex environments.
The Advantage of Multi-Orbit Architecture for ESA-Based STUAS
STUAS UAV equipped with ESA terminals deliver agility, compactness, and reliability supported by satellite communications. Low SWAP ESA bring benefits to power-constrained smaller UAV platforms when communicating over NGSO. This is since MEO and LEO are much closer to Earth, typically between 500 and 10,000 kilometers, thus smaller UAVs can enjoy less power for transmission and allow for smaller antenna apertures while utilizing NGSO orbits. Thus, the closer proximity of NGSO constellations allows UAVs to maintain high-throughput and reliable BLoS connectivity.
Furthermore, ESA points considerably faster than mechanical antennas, enabling smooth operations over NGSO constellations, without interruptions for satellite handover. The instantaneous handover between satellites, allowed by the swift electronical beam steering, enables seamless break-before-make with immediate link re-acquisition, and maintaining continuous, high-quality connectivity even during high-speed operations.
The lower latency and increased bandwidth provided by NGSO constellations further enhance real-time secure data transmission, supporting mission-critical applications such as ISR and remote command and control. Due to the expansion of NGSO networks, they are poised to unlock the full potential of ESA-equipped UAVs, delivering resilient, flexible, and truly global BLoS communications.
Another significant advantage of low latency is in crucial time-sensitive operations, such as target acquisition and engagement. The reduced signal travel time between the UAV / the ground terminal and the satellite enables near-instantaneous data transfer, allowing for rapid sensor-to-shooter loops and quick locking on targets, even during dynamic tasks scenarios.
By operating over GEO and/or NGSO satellite constellations, ESA-equipped UAVs can harness the complementary strengths of each orbit to achieve unprecedented operational flexibility and resilience. GEO satellites provide continuous, wide coverage and reliable high-capacity links, making them ideal for assignments requiring steady, persistent connectivity across large areas. On the other hand, NGSO satellites offer low latency, enhanced mobility, and adaptable coverage in regions where GEO performance may be limited, especially at higher latitudes or during dynamic maneuvers.
Multi-orbit ESA terminals enable UAVs to dynamically switch between GEO and NGSO constellations with instantaneous handover. This ensures uninterrupted BLoS communications, maximizes data throughput, and reduces vulnerability to interference or jamming. As a result, defense forces benefit from the best of both worlds.
Full End-to-End Solution Required
As defense organizations modernize their UAV fleets and leverage advanced ESA technology, the need for a comprehensive and scalable, full end-to-end communications solution becomes increasingly critical. This requirement extends beyond the airborne segment to encompass robust ground infrastructure capable of supporting demanding
mission profiles. Satcom terminals must offer resilient, always-on connectivity for Ground Control Stations (GCS).
The BLoS link between the GCS and the UAV is based on either fixed or transportable terminals, depending on the operational scenario and on the system topology. Operational flexibility must be achieved in forward operating environments or remote locations where infrastructure is limited.
A comprehensive and resilient solution is vital for maintaining situational awareness, supporting real-time mission updates and dynamic UAV operations achieving true BLoS capability for advanced UAV missions.
Conclusion
ESA-equipped UAVs, empowered by GEO and/or NGSO satellite networks, are redefining operational boundaries and communication reliability for defense missions. The synergistic benefits of multi-orbit architectures, combining low latency, global coverage, and robust link quality, enable STUAS UAVs to deliver mission-critical performance across diverse environments and extended ranges. By investing in comprehensive end-to-end solutions, including fixed / portable ground infrastructure, defense organizations ensure uninterrupted, secure BLoS connectivity that supports agile, coordinated, and resilient UAV
operations.
Gilat Satellite Networks is the premier provider of end-to-end, multi-orbit connectivity solutions for the defense market. With focus on the Small Tactical UAV market, Gilat provides an expanded offering including high-performance, cost-effective, low SWaP ESA technology, as well as robust fixed, portable and transportable ground equipment and a versatile baseband offering. Gilat’s solutions ensure BLoS communication for critical ISR mission resilience in the most contested environments.
For more information, please contact info@gilat.com
