An Orbit antenna deployed for a defense and development organization in Asia. Photo: Orbit Communications Systems.

Orbit Communications Systems announced that an undisclosed Ministry of Defense (MOD) in Asia ordered an aeronautical telemetry system for approximately $5 million.

The customer will use the turnkey solution — including a 5-meter S-band antenna and full ground station with total data chain capabilities — for test range applications. Orbit expects to deliver the system in 2019.

According to Orbit Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Eitan Livneh, the order comes on the heels of a similar one last April for a 1.8-meter S-band system from the same customer. Key advantages of the telemetry solution include fast target acquisition for tracking accuracy and quality and weather-resistant terminals built to withstand extreme temperatures (from -40 degrees Celsius to 55 degrees Celsius), Orbit stated.

In January, Orbit announced it closed 2017 with record orders in December worth more than $20 million. “2017 was an important year for Orbit,” Livneh said. “Our financial stability was enhanced when FIMI Opportunity Funds became our controlling shareholder and our strategic focus was validated by a record month of orders in December.”