Viasat has announced that it will integrate its GAT-5530 broadband terminal into the Spanish Army’s Airbus C295 fleet.
The company will collaborate with Airbus to provide a highly flexible, multi-band and -orbit satellite broadband communication capability to support the army’s missions.
All of Spain’s C295s will use the terminal for expanded command and control and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
The technology will connect to Madrid’s SpainSat NG system, two interference-free satellites that provide secure military communications for the country.
The GAT-5530
Designed to operate on multiple networks for uninterrupted real-time connection, Viasat’s GAT-5530 terminal supports ITU Ku- and Ka-bands, including 3.5GHz of commercial and military Ka-band.
It can also connect to private government in-theater networks for specific missions.
Viasat senior vice president Victor Farah said that integrating the GAT-5530 underscores the Spanish Ministry of Defense’s trust in the company to deliver brand-new connectivity solutions to broaden fleet patrols.
“Our connectivity solutions are designed to support modern military operation requirements with advanced, secure and resilient satellite communications,” he added.
Experience in Supporting the C295
In 2023, Viasat collaborated with the Irish Air Corps to introduce the terminal to its two C295 planes.
The terminal is currently being used for Ireland’s air patrols, as well as peacekeeping operations in the region organized by the UN.