FutureFlight
Inmarsat and Xwing Adapt Velaris Satcom for Remotely Piloted Operations
Xwing is seeking approval for remotely piloted commercial cargo flights as a way to resolve what it says is a looming pilot shortage.
Xwing
Xwing is teaming with Inmarsat to integrate its Velaris satellite communications terminal into remotely piloted aircraft. (Photo: Xwing)

Autonomous flight technology developer Xwing is partnering with satellite communications (satcom) group Inmarsat to provide inflight connectivity to support aircraft operations without a pilot on board. In an October 6 announcement, the two companies said they will develop a dedicated satcom terminal based on Inmarsat’s new Velaris solutions for UAV connectivity.

The terminals will be integrated with aircraft and will be able to access both satellite and terrestrial networks to provide consistent and optimal coverage throughout autonomous flights. Data services to support beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and command and control (C2) functions will be available via satcom links.

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