[Satellite TODAY 03-06-13] Inmarsat has signed a deal with Kymeta, a company that designs and commercializes metamaterials-based antennas for satellite communications, to develop the Kymeta Aero Antenna, a new satellite antenna that would enable business jets of any size to access high-speed broadband connectivity globally through Inmarsat’s Global Xpress (GX) service. 

   According to the companies, the Kymeta Aero Antenna will be a light-weight, flat-panel device, capable of delivering high broadband speeds, data rates and bandwidth for business jet customers, similar to the service they receive at home or in the office. 

   The device is so small and streamlined that it can be fitted to much smaller aircraft than was previously possible. Additionally, it electronically steers the antenna beam to Inmarsat’s GX satellites without requiring power-consuming phase shifters or mechanically moving parts, which reduces the overall cost and power consumption of the equipment.

   “Over the coming 10 years, some 10,000 new business jets are forecast to enter service. In this changing world, where enhancing the productivity and effectiveness of the business executive is paramount, the need to offer constant connectivity is non-negotiable. It is this absolute requirement to keep executives connected, wherever they are, that is driving demand for solutions which support smaller aircraft,” Leo Mondale, managing director of Inmarsat Global Xpress, said on a statement.

   Honeywell is also supporting the antenna development, which will only be available to GX users. This complements the agreement between Inmarsat and Honeywell announced in April 2012 for GX Aviation Terminals.