Belgium has awarded Airbus a contract to provide a satellite communications (SATCOM) solution to the Belgian Armed Forces.
The 15-year agreement will see the company deliver its ultra-high frequency (UHF) military communications payload hosted through an Airbus-built commercial telecommunications satellite.
“With this new UHF payload, Airbus will be able to offer a new UHF communications service, scheduled for launch in 2024, to the armed forces, particularly those of European countries and NATO allies,” Airbus Defence and Space Connected Intelligence Marketing and Sales Head Eric Even stated.
Supports Multiple Frequency Bands
The UHF payload will be employed at the Airbus Network Operations Center in Toulouse, France.
It will consist of 18 channels supporting up to 200 simultaneous communication links between Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, the Indian Ocean, and the Atlantic Ocean.
“Airbus has unique experience in operating UHF milsatcom services. This new payload will enhance its portfolio throughout the lifespan of the satellite,” a statement from Airbus said.
“Airbus is the only armed forces private satcom operator to cover the full spectrum of military (UHF, X, Ka Mil) and commercial (L, C/Ku, Ka) frequency bands and applications.”
Airbus SATCOM in Other Countries
In 2022, Airbus received a contract to provide similar SATCOM services for the Czech and Dutch armed forces.
The company has also partnered with the UK Ministry of Defence to support the country’s Skynet 5 and Skynet 6 strategic communication programs.
