Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES), a notable player in satellite and multi-transport technologies for half a century, alongside OneWeb, a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications company, have been chosen by the U.S. Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) to carry out a demonstration project. This initiative will showcase managed LEO satellite communications (SATCOM) services aimed at linking the Arctic with locations worldwide.
In a significant move, Hughes will implement and evaluate these comprehensive services on the OneWeb system across selected U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) sites. This marks an initial step in leveraging LEO satellites for delivering high-speed, low-latency broadband access throughout the Arctic region.
SATCOM Networks
The collaboration is set to strengthen the partnership between Hughes and the U.S. Air Force. Rick Lober, vice president and general manager of Hughes Defense and Intelligence Systems Division, remarked, “This opportunity reinforces the relationship between Hughes and the U.S. Air Force to ensure resilient, flexible SATCOM networks for tactical, multi-domain operations.” Lober also expressed anticipation in joining forces with OneWeb to introduce LEO innovations to military SATCOM operations, notably in the Arctic where connectivity remains a challenge.
OneWeb Constellation
Dylan Browne, Head of Government Services at OneWeb, highlighted the potential of the OneWeb constellation. He stated, “The OneWeb constellation has been designed to enable low-latency broadband access across the globe, allowing connectivity in previously unreached areas—a capability that is ideal for tactical, multi-domain operations in the Polar region and beyond.” Collaboratively, Hughes and OneWeb intend to fill the connectivity void for NORTHCOM by providing an interoperable and secure solution.
Next-Generation Technology
As the primary contractor, Hughes will spearhead the adaptation, integration, testing, and ongoing management of this service trial, working closely with OneWeb and Intellian, developers of user terminals designed for the OneWeb network. The Intellian terminals, noted for their straightforward installation, are poised to leverage cutting-edge technology to offer a cost-effective system enabling access to OneWeb’s low-latency, high-bandwidth capabilities.
User Terminal Core Module
Under another partnership with OneWeb, Hughes is responsible for engineering and producing the gateway equipment and user terminal core module. This role underlines Hughes' suitability in delivering high-speed, low-latency solutions above the 50th parallel North, a region traditionally challenging for satellite services to reach. This initiative is a component of the U.S. Air Force's Defense Experimentation Using the Commercial Space Internet (DEUCSI) program.
OneWeb’s Network
With a commitment to global coverage, OneWeb’s network is specifically designed to offer enhanced connectivity, especially in the Arctic region. With 182 satellites dispatched and consistent launches scheduled throughout 2021, OneWeb is poised to extend its coverage to the 50th parallel North and above by the end of the year, effectively addressing a significant connectivity gap and establishing secure communication capabilities in Northern territories.
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