Airframe Designs Collaborates in Satellite Communications Technology

LeoSat Solutions unveiled a groundbreaking satellite communications antenna at the recent Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg in a collaborative effort between UK JV partners Reliasat, 21Aero and Airframe Designs.

The joint venture merges over 100 years of combined experience in aviation and In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity (IFEC). The aim is to disrupt the market with innovative In-Flight Entertainment and next-generation Electronically Steered Antenna (ESA) connectivity solutions, emphasising low weight, low drag, low power, and low cost.

Jerrod Hartley, CEO of Airframe Designs, said: “The unveiling of the new SATCOM antenna mock-up at the Aircraft Interiors Expo represents a pivotal moment in satellite communications, with LeoSat Solutions being able to demonstrate significant performance advantages compared to existing solutions on the market. This new antenna exemplifies our commitment to innovation and our mission to reshape the IFEC landscape. With its advanced capabilities and strategic design, we are set to offer unparalleled performance and sustainability in satellite communications.”

The showcased antenna introduces a single-beam ESA capable of very low beam switch times and maintains a significant operational advantage with over 60 degrees viewing angles with minimal signal loss. This technology is pivotal in reducing the carbon footprint by lowering the weight and drag of traditional systems, while also minimising the cost of ownership through an affordable Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) package aimed at the retrofit market.

The antenna showcases technical excellence featuring a flat, low-profile geometry that is ideal for modern communication systems, including satellite, aviation, and ground communications in remote areas, as well as for emerging 5G systems.

The ESA panels are designed for robust aviation mobility utilising LEO Ka networks, providing capabilities exceeding 400Mbps. The panel size and number of elements are scalable based on use case, bandwidth requirements, network specifications, link budget, modem type, and power input which supports even portable applications.

This antenna system represents a leap forward in antenna technology with its ultra-low profile design that significantly reduces drag and is optimized for commercial aircraft deployment.

With an estimated weight of approximately 20kg and dimensions tailored to minimise aerodynamic impact, this system not only enhances operational efficiency but also sets new standards in the environmental and economic sustainability of aviation technologies.

Airframe Designs has earned a reputation for delivering optimal engineering solutions for mechanical structures, with a strong emphasis on new design, modifications, repairs, and reverse engineering, as well as providing advanced additive manufacturing services.

With polymer additive manufacturing technology, combined with 3D scanning and 3D modelling, Airframe Designs offers creative solutions to complex engineering problems in the aviation and defence part market, including solutions for airframe tooling. This technology can also be adapted for other industries including space, nuclear, motorsport and rail.