BAE Systems’ strategic partner, Stellar Blu Solutions, has completed the qualification and earned supplemental type certification for the multi-orbit Sidewinder aero terminal, which utilises BAE Systems’ Ku-band electronically scanned antenna (ESA). This achievement enables the companies to commence mass production and installation of antennas, supporting in-flight connectivity (IFC) for commercial aircraft, business jets and various military and government platforms.
In March, the ESA met the DO-160 airborne equipment qualification standards, progressing directly to production, reflecting its mature design, high product quality and robust heritage. Following the completion of flight testing in June, the Sidewinder terminal received its initial supplemental type certification (STC) from the Federal Aviation Administration. This certification allows airlines to start integrating the system onto regional jets. The terminal will also undergo global performance validation and testing on a second aircraft, including in polar regions.
With these milestones achieved, BAE Systems and Stellar Blu have scaled up production and begun shipments to fulfil over 1,000 existing orders, with several hundred installations planned for the next year. Concurrently, the companies are collaborating on next-generation terminal designs optimised for Ku and Ka low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.
Paula Burns, Vice President and General Manager of Tactical Solutions for BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems, said: “The need for quality in-flight connectivity is growing every day, as displayed by our already considerable number of orders. This is a major milestone for both BAE Systems and Stellar Blu, and it will serve as a building block as we continue to advance these capabilities for our commercial and military customers.”
BAE Systems is responsible for designing and producing the transmit antenna, receive antenna and antenna control software, which Stellar Blu integrates into the Sidewinder terminal. The Sidewinder terminal is a comprehensive aero terminal, including all necessary external and cabin components to support internet service providers offering multi-orbit connectivity. Integrator kits are also available for government applications. Stellar Blu managed the qualification and STC process for the terminal.
Tracy Trent, CEO of Stellar Blu Solutions, added: “Our collaboration is foundational to our success, which is reflected in our backlog and the overwhelming interest in every aero market. We continue to invest in the adaption of Sidewinder with airframe original equipment manufacturers and the development of new products, utilising proven BAE Systems technology to bring a range of solutions to our customers.”
BAE Systems’ antennas support multi-orbit satellite communications and have undergone extensive flight testing on both LEO and geostationary orbit satellite networks. The low-profile antenna met all qualification requirements without the need for an external radome, reducing costs and installation complexity while enhancing radio frequency performance.
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