Revolutionizing Connectivity: GA-ASI Unveils Laser-Powered Network Relay Technology

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) has successfully conducted a comprehensive networked demonstration employing several Laser Communication terminals. This configuration consisted of terrestrial, mobile, and aerial terminals. Throughout the demonstration, a real-time video and audio stream of operators at each terminal was transmitted within the networked communication interface.

Laser communication technology is increasingly sought after for military operations due to its intrinsic Low Probability of Intercept/Low Probability of Detection (LPI/LPD) features, along with its anti-jamming capabilities, and its capacity to enable significantly higher data throughput (exceeding 1 Gigabit per second) compared to conventional Radio Frequency (RF) systems.

“This fully-integrated laser communication demonstration marks a pivotal achievement for GA-ASI and a substantial success for the laser communication field as it showcased the extended utilization of this technology beyond simple point-to-point exchanges,” stated GA-ASI Vice President of Mission Payloads and Exploitation, Satish Krishnan.

“The effective execution of this demonstration illustrates how laser communication can be implemented in an operational environment to genuinely deliver LPI/LPD high-capacity communications for the warfighter,” he continued.

The demonstration was held at the Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic in Charleston, S.C., on November 3, 2022, as part of a GA-ASI-funded initiative aimed at showcasing enhanced multi-point network communications utilizing laser technology. During the event, which was organized by the NIWC Atlantic’s optical communications-oriented Advanced Naval Technology Exercise (ANTX), the team maintained laser communication links at 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) while sharing high-definition video and voice data.

GA-ASI has engineered a suite of optical communication solutions and is well-positioned to transition these capabilities to users across various domains, from airborne to maritime environments. Laser communication will empower GA-ASI’s Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) to execute secure multi-domain communications with airborne, maritime, and ground operators, in addition to future satellite systems.

This functionality can be implemented as a podded option or a completely integrated solution within GA-ASI’s extensive range of unmanned aerial vehicles, including the MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian®, MQ-9A Reaper, and MQ-1C Gray Eagle 25M.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), a subsidiary of General Atomics, stands as a premier designer and manufacturer of reliable and proven Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic mission systems, encompassing the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar.

With over seven million flight hours accumulated, GA-ASI delivers long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft equipped with integrated sensor and data link systems essential for persistent operations that enable situational awareness and swift strike capabilities. Additionally, the company produces a variety of ground control stations and sensor control/image analysis software, provides pilot training and support services, and develops advanced meta-material antennas.