USAF contracts ViaLite Communications for SATCOM solution
ViaLite RF over fibre links are used in the satellite industry to transport satellite signals between antennas and control rooms. (Photo: ViaLite)
The Air Force Research Lab approached ViaLite to develop a new SATCOM solution.
The USAF Research Lab (AFRL) has contracted RF over fibre manufacturers, ViaLite Communications, to deliver a solution for satellite communications downlinks, transferring L-Band signals through the ground station complex.
The process converts the RF electrical signal to laser light which then travels down the fibre to the receiver where it is converted back to an RF signal.
ViaLite’s L-Band HTS links, in the standalone Blue OEM module format, were selected by AFRL for integration into their system.
The L-Band HTS links were appropriate as they are compact, single link and available in RF bands up to six gigahertz.
They can be operated either as transmitters or receivers and are easily mounted into existing equipment.
The links are available in multiple formats including the OEM module format.
One format is rack chassis cards, for use in ViaLite 3U and 1U rack chassis units.
Another is Yellow OEM modules, designed for system integrators and manufacturers to build into their own designs.
Finally, the ViaLite Blue2 module houses two links and can be set up to be a dual transmitter, dual receiver or transceiver.
More from Defence Notes
-
![What the future holds for Ukraine and NATO under a Trump administration]()
What the future holds for Ukraine and NATO under a Trump administration
Although Trump’s geopolitics policy for Europe remains unclear, defence analysts from the US and Europe predict how his incoming administration would attempt to handle critical issues on the continent.
-
![RUSI deputy: UK needs longer procurement plans and improved awareness of US sift to Indo-Pacific]()
RUSI deputy: UK needs longer procurement plans and improved awareness of US sift to Indo-Pacific
The UK budget announced in Parliament on 30 October was the first by a Labour government in 14 years which has also launched a review into defence procurement programmes.
-
![Australia outlines longer punch and brings local industry onboard]()
Australia outlines longer punch and brings local industry onboard
The Australian government has placed a focus on Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) which has included the purchase of additional long-range rocket systems and investments in local production of missiles.
-
![UK boosts defence budget by 5.3%, but is this enough?]()
UK boosts defence budget by 5.3%, but is this enough?
The UK budget announced in Parliament on 30 October is the first by a Labour government in 14 years. While it sees a boost in defence spending, this comes in the face of fiscal challenges and the effects of inflation.
-
![UK makes big moves to fix “broken” defence procurement system ahead of major review]()
UK makes big moves to fix “broken” defence procurement system ahead of major review
The changes are intended to meet greater need and deliver more value for money.
-
![US companies invest in production capabilities to satisfy DoD’s hunger for cutting-edge capabilities]()
US companies invest in production capabilities to satisfy DoD’s hunger for cutting-edge capabilities
BAE Systems, Booz Allen Hamilton and Lockheed Martin have been betting on new facilities and innovative manufacturing technologies to speed up the development of new solutions.
