Rockwell Collins’ antenna with electronically scanned array technology. Photo: Business Wire

[Via Satellite 3-16-2015] Rockwell Collins has signed a memorandum of understanding with OneWeb to be the exclusive developer and provider of satellite communication (satcom) terminals for OneWeb’s global aviation high-speed broadband service. Rockwell Collins will also be an authorized Value Added Reseller (VAR) of OneWeb connectivity services.

Under the agreement, OneWeb will team with Rockwell Collins to develop and certify the satcom terminals, which will use Electronically Scanned Array (ESA) antenna technology developed by Rockwell Collins’ Advanced Technology Center. Using rapid beam movement and reconfigurable antenna patterns, ESA antennas provide high levels of performance to ensure that aircraft stay connected during flight.

“The antenna is a fraction of the size and weight of a traditional airborne satcom antenna, which means significant long-term cost savings for airlines from reduced fuel consumption,” said John Borghese, vice president of the Advanced Technology Center for Rockwell Collins.

OneWeb is building a constellation of more than 600 satellites that, when launched, will provide approximately 10 terabits per second of low-latency, high-speed broadband to people around the globe.