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SD Avionics developing flat panel antenna in partnership with QEST

SD Flat Panel Antenna

Orlando, Florida / 15 October 2018 – SD Avionics, the hardware manufacturing division of Satcom Direct, has partnered with QEST Quantenelektronische Systeme GmbH, a worldwide market leader in innovative aeronautical antennas, to develop a new flat panel connectivity antenna for business and military aviation. The electronically steered phased-array antenna system aims to be the smallest and most efficient form factor, bringing high speed connectivity to a wider range of aircraft. SD will be the exclusive provider of this antenna to business aviation, military and government markets globally. Compatible satellite network constellations will be announced next year.

Purpose fit for small to mid-size jets, where a tail-mounted antenna solution is not an option, the lightweight, low-profile design will bring high-speed connectivity to a wide range of airframes. Scalable and modular, the flat panel system conforms to the size and shape requirements of an individual aircraft fuselage without bringing excessive weight or power requirements.

SD Avionics is working with aircraft OEMs on product specification and development, targeting product launch in late 2020. Once available, the antenna system will become part of SD Xperience, bringing future-proof technology compatible with LEO and GEO satellite networks operating in multiple frequency bands to the portfolio. A conceptual light-jet prototype is available for viewing at SD’s NBAA, booth 250 and static display SD40.

“We are committed to providing global connectivity solutions across the business aviation sector. The introduction of this flat panel antenna will enable an even greater selection of connectivity options for a wider range of platforms around the world. Our investment means more passengers, crew, and flight departments will access reliable, secure connectivity to support their day-to-day operations,” said Jim Jensen, Founder and CEO of SD.

“Partnering with SD has enabled a dynamic development approach combining technical ingenuity with years of business aviation experience to help formulate a product that we know the market will welcome. We wanted to create technology to substantially improve connectivity access within the General Aviation market place and working with Satcom Direct has enabled us to do this. We know the segment will benefit as a result,” said Dr. Joerg Oppenlaender, Chief Technology Officer of QEST.

About Satcom Direct

Satcom Direct (SD) and its companies provide global connectivity solutions for business and general aviation, military, government, and head of state aircraft. The company also provides land mobile services to areas with connectivity limitations. Since 1997, SD has worked to advance the technology of global connectivity, being first to market with many new capabilities in communications technology. SD’s industry leading connectivity solutions are complemented by their divisional capabilities including SD Avionics cabin and flight deck systems and SD software solutions. A premier Inmarsat distribution partner (including Jet ConneX), Iridium service partner, and ViaSat Ku preferred reseller, SD is also the exclusive service provider for SmartSky Networks, and the Master Distributor of Intelsat FlexExec.

SD World Headquarters and primary operations center is located in Melbourne, Florida, with additional office locations in the United States, Canada, UK, UAE, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Australia, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa. For more information regarding SD, visit www.satcomdirect.com, e-mail [email protected], or call U.S. +1.321.777.3000 or UK +44.1252.554.460.

About QEST

QEST Quantenelektronische Systeme GmbH is a leading provider of high-performance broadband satellite antenna technology for aeronautical applications. Driving airborne connectivity, QEST antennas enable applications with demanding bandwidth requirements while being fully compliant with regulatory frameworks. QEST antenna designs are optimized for each individual application, ensuring that the needs of satellite operators, service providers and airlines are ideally met. With exceptional track records in large commercial antenna programs, QEST is a reliable partner to the connectivity industry. The German company is located in Holzgerlingen close to Stuttgart. It is a subsidiary of the DRÄXLMAIER Group, one of the top 100 automotive supplier worldwide.

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