Broadband/Connectivity News Tech Updates

Inmarsat and Harvest to launch UAV live streaming solution

Initially, UTM technology provider Altitude Angel joined Inmarsat's Velaris Partner Network in October 2021, followed now by Harvest.

Inmarsat has expanded the partner network for its Velaris connectivity solution with the addition of Harvest Technology Group (Harvest), an Australia-based specialist in ultra-low bandwidth live streaming technology.

Inmarsat said the combination of its Velaris connectivity solution and Harvest’s network optimised live streaming technology will allow commercial operators of UAVs to securely stream HD video, images, voice, and data in real-time. The ability to stream aerial footage and important sensory data allows UAV operations to be managed remotely, with an 80% reduction in data usage on existing networks. In addition to enhancing critical decision-making, this will also limit the risk of placing personnel in dangerous or costly environments, both in industry settings and in supporting emergency rescue, disaster relief and crisis response efforts.

With Harvest’s solution, the entire remote inspection or response team, clients and any necessary third-party can securely join live UAV operations. Harvest’s UAV inspection solution enables safe Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations over Inmarsat’s Velaris satellite connectivity.

Anthony Spouncer, Inmarsat’s Senior Director of UAVs & Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM), said: “Inmarsat’s Velaris Partner Network is focused on unlocking ground-breaking innovation and capabilities for the commercial UAV market. We are delighted to welcome Harvest Technology Group as the latest member. Its rugged and reliable HD live stream video and command and control (C2) data technology with advanced security and encryption, will play a key role as part of our vision for a world-class UAV ecosystem. This is a major step forward in the programme and reinforces Inmarsat’s position as a catalyst in this fast-growing industry.”

Paul Guilfoyle, Harvest Technology Group’s Group CEO, added: “We are excited about bringing together the unique individual strengths of Harvest Technology Group and Inmarsat to benefit customers in the commercial UAV market. As part of the Velaris Partner Network, we will deliver an innovative, world-class solution that combines our top-tier security, encryption and data transfer with the seamless global connectivity offered by Inmarsat’s Velaris. And together, we will also continue to develop additional game-changing capabilities to support the rapid growth expected in this industry over the coming years.”