Inmarsat I5 F1 and F2. Photo: Inmarsat

[Via Satellite 03-27-2014] Boeing has chosen ETL Systems to support Inmarsat’s Global Xpress (GX) services for high speed maritime communications. ETL’s RF systems will support the first of three GX satellites in the constellation: the Inmarsat5 F1, which has successfully completed its orbital deployment stages.

The satellite’s first teleport, based in Italy and supplied with ETL equipment, will be commissioned in April, leaving the Inmarsat5 F1 on track to begin commercial service of its high-speed broadband GX connectivity service by mid-2014. Based at 62.6 degrees east, the satellite is equipped with 89 beams and six steerable high-power spot beams that will enable Inmarsat to increase capacity and offer high-throughput broadband services.

ETL will supply its new Alto range of line amplifiers along with RF splitters and combiners for the ground segment. This equipment will offer distribution over L-band and provide remote control and monitoring for 24-hour operations.