BlackRay 72Ka predecessor, the BlackRay 71. Photo: Gilat.

Gilat Satellite Networks announced the commercial availability of an ultra-compact airborne satellite communications terminal for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Weighing less than 5kg (11 lbs.), the BlackRay 72Ka is the newest in Gilat’s family of unmanned aerial terminals.

The BlackRay 72Ka is specifically designed to operate with the new generation of Ka-band High Throughput Satellites (HTS), supporting data speeds of up to 2 Mbps for any Internet Protocol-based (IP) voice, video or data Beyond Line-of-Sight (BLoS) application. It also provides full-duplex satellite communication, linking the UAS to its ground control station. The forward link provides command and control capabilities, while the return link transfers sensor data. This integrated terminal comprises Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) technologies developed and manufactured by Gilat.