Skytrac Systems Ltd. (Skytrac a leader in satellite communications (Satcom) and intelligent connectivity solutions, announced that HTM Group and Zimex Aviation Ltd., a leader in remote field operations, have selected Skytrac’s SDL-350 Satcom system for broadband VIP and Special Mission connectivity.

A powerful satellite terminal, data acquisition, and onboard server system, the SDL-350 provides up to 704 Kbps of high throughput transmission for a variety of applications including live video streaming, data transmission, and more. The system can provide office-level connectivity, globally, with low latency and 99.9% uptime reliability using the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Iridium NEXT satellite constellation.

While HTM Group will be integrating Skytrac’s novel solution onboard helicopter airframes including the Airbus H145, EC145 and, Zimex Aviation will be implementing the solution onboard fixed-wing DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, providing high throughput capabilities for both fixed and rotary-wing aircraft.

By utilizing the Iridium NEXT constellation and the Iridium Certus service, Skytrac’s SDL-350 enables HTM and Zimex Aviation to offer VIP and Special Mission passengers with greater bandwidth and consistent, reliable connectivity, regardless of weather conditions and natural disasters. This connectivity will be enabled at a cost-effective rate when compared to legacy Geostationary (GEO) Satcom services, increasing operational efficiencies.

“The SDL-350’s onboard server allows Skytrac to offer broadband IP solutions to our customers and partners,” mentions Skytrac’s director of business development, Ruben Stepin. “Skytrac is at the forefront of Iridium Certus development for the aviation industry, and we are proving this with a custom solution for HTM Group and Zimex.”

Skytrac’s innovative SDL-350 system extends the bandwidth capability of the Iridium Certus service to upgrade inflight connectivity. Passengers can uninterruptedly browse the internet, communicate through email and chat, conduct VoIP calls, and stream videos from a wide range of third-party applications such as Netflix and YouTube on their own devices. The connectivity will be streamed through an in-cabin Wi-Fi network, providing an access point for onboard devices such as workstations, mobile phones, tablets, and laptops.

“We are committed to delivering customized solutions for unique client needs and Skytrac has enabled us to do so,” mentions Erich Kunz, head of maintenance at Zimex Aviation. “Skytrac’s innovative approach offers a reliable and high-quality solution that will exceed our client’s expectations.”

“We’re excited to leverage the SDL-350 to provide a reliable, consistent, and affordable solution for providing our customers with high bandwidth connectivity,” mentions Andreas Schühle, head of business development and special mission projects of HTM Group. “We are excited to work with Skytrac to integrate and certify this solution onboard industry-leading rotorcraft.”

This press release was prepared and distributed by Skytrac.