Sentient Digital Inc. and Viasat are collaborating with SGD Engineering of Israel to support the South Korean coast guard’s pilot satellite communication program, providing accurate, real-time multi-domain awareness for its CN-235 tactical aircraft.
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New Orleans-based SDi said it is working with SGD to develop a robust satcom network for the Korea Coast Guard CN-235 using Viasat’s GAT-5530 Ku/Ka broadband terminal. The system is designed for information sharing in real time among maritime security forces, including airborne units and ground stations. It offers the capability to share voice, video and airborne tactical data, including information from radar and automatic identification systems.
The pilot program will install the SDi partnership’s satcom platform on one aircraft, with potential integration on other CN-235s in subsequent program phases. To achieve its goal of advanced, multi-band and multi-orbit connectivity, South Korea’s sovereign Mugunghwa-5A Ku band satellite and the forthcoming Chollian 3 Ka-band satellite will be tapped.
SDi anticipates a long-term collaboration with Viasat and SGD in providing satcom connectivity to other operators of the CN-235 aircraft, 240 of which are deployed worldwide, mostly in maritime environments.
SDi President Chris Mobley called the KCG collaboration a “significant milestone” in the company’s work on aircraft systems integration and boosts its commitment to international partnerships. “By leveraging our expertise and working with global leaders like Viasat and SGD, we’re proud to support the Korea Coast Guard in achieving advanced mission capabilities while furthering SDi’s mission of enhancing maritime security worldwide,” he said.