Hughes Demonstrates Satcom-Enabled Helicopter Transmissions

Real-time, high-definition video can transmit through helicopter blades with no signal disruption, Hughes Network Systems said Monday, announcing a demonstration of the beyond-line-sight technology by its Defense and Intelligence Systems Division. The test involved Ka-band transmissions between the Inmarsat-5 F2 satellite and a NorthStar Aviation Bell 407 helicopter, and points to more use of satellite communications-enabled helicopters operating in areas where line-of-sight communications don't work, Hughes said.