Providing reliable mobile satellite communications for special forces and other units operating on small vessels during operations on the shores of seas and rivers is a very difficult task due to extreme pitching and rolling and vertical movements.

Although mobile satellite communications, also known as Sotm (Satcom-On-The-Move), is available to handheld devices around the world, at all latitudes thanks to the Iridium constellation of 66 commercial satellites, it is limited to low speeds. data transmission from 2.4 to 10 kbps. Broadband satellite communications require higher frequencies, namely the UHF band (300 MHz to 3 GHz), the X-band (8-12 GHz), the Ku-band (12-18 GHz) and the Ka-band (26.5-40 GHz) ). It also requires antennas with high gain and narrow beam directivity, which must be accurately pointed at the satellite at any given time. This is a major technical challenge in the design of vehicle-mounted systems that must communicate while traveling over rough terrain.

Such systems became available several years ago. But the early systems were large, heavy, and expensive, and had protruding antenna radomes, making satellite-equipped vehicles obvious targets and restricting their access to equipped parking areas in urban areas. In addition, there is a high demand for the military satellite communication frequency band with a limited supply. Therefore, the new satellite constellation, along with innovations in mobile terrestrial equipment, ranging from low-profile antennas to transferring satellite communications waveforms to programmable radios, is causing a stir among the military.

“Based on the experience gained and the analysis of the fighting, the number one on the documented list of scarce communications for a mobile soldier is mobile communications out of line of sight,” Captain Paul Gisel said in September 2013 in his review of the latest narrowband UHF satellite communications system. known as Muos (Mobile User Objective System). Captain Gisel leads the Navy's satellite communications program PMW146.

As MUOS demonstrates growing capabilities, the development of mobile terminals for a wide range of users of this next generation narrowband satellite system is gaining momentum. On January 22, 2014, the Navy's Space and Naval Systems Command requested information from industry on Muos terminals in preparation for a late March demonstration of Over-The-Air (OTA) wireless communications and related terminal tests. This has no doubt whetted the appetites of companies like Harris and General Dynamics C4 Systems, which recently demonstrated Muos' capabilities in major mobile radios.

US Navy's Muos 2 satellite, encased in a streamlined capsule five meters in diameter, before docking with an Atlas V. Muos is a next-generation tactical satellite communications system designed to expand the mobile communications capabilities of US and Allied forces.

Backpack radio AN / PRC-155 from GD C4 Systems, which can be loaded with Muos satellite communication protocols. Laboratory tests in August 2013 showed it could connect an AN / PRC-154 infantryman's radio to a Muos communications satellite.

Backpack radios from GD C4S communicate with MUOS satellites

On November 15, 2013, GD C4S announced that two of its AN / PRC-155 backpack radios had successfully exchanged voice and data via Muos satellites in equatorial orbits; Muos wave templates have been loaded into these programmable radios. In the latitudes of the Arctic and Antarctic, connecting to satellites in geostationary orbit is a problem as they are very close to the horizon. As the Earth flattens near the poles (the shape of an oblate spheroid), in some areas on its surface, satellites in this orbit become invisible.

“The PRC-155 Manpack radio was the first and only military radio to transmit encrypted voice messages and data using Muos from the planet’s highest latitudes in cold temperatures and harsh Arctic winds,” said Chris Marcilli, President of General Dynamics C4 Systems.

During this mid-October demonstration, several scenarios were worked out, which General Dynamics describes as "realistic operational scenarios from fixed points of contact near Anchorage and Cape Barrow, Alaska, and from an aircraft flying along the Arctic Circle." The AN / PRC-155 two-channel radio was used to conduct several single-channel voice and data sessions in addition to conference calls with more than five participants. Data rates of up to 64 kbps have been demonstrated.

The AN / PRC-155 knapsack radio has demonstrated its ability to communicate with Muos at high arctic latitudes from both ground-based and aircraft communication points. During the demo in October, there were multiple voice and data sessions as well as conference calls with more than five participants

This was the latest in a series of tests in which General Dynamics linked its backpack and handheld radios to the Muos satellite constellation. In August 2013, the company established communication between the AN / PRC-154 infantryman's radio and the Muos satellite via the AN / PRC-155 backpack radio. This comes after April tests of encrypted data and speech transmission from one radio station to another through the Muos system, based in turn on the first demonstration of such communication in February 2012, in which a satellite simulator and an AN / PRC-155 radio station with downloaded Muos templates participated.

FALCON III connection with MUOS

Shortly thereafter, Harris announced a successful connection on December 2, 2013, with its AN / PRC-117G Falcon III multiband knapsack radio with Muos satellites. These tests also took place beyond the Arctic Circle, a region that lacks military UHF communications. This time, the Falcon III radio station was on board a transport aircraft flying from Alaska to the North Pole and back. More than 30,000 AN / PRC-117G radios deployed are ready to adopt Muos software as an upgrade, according to Harris.

ALICO Phased Array Terminal

While phased array antennas have become commonplace in radar systems, they are relatively rare in the communications world. However, Alico Systems has implemented this technology in its Broadband Distributed Aperture satellite terminal, the details of which the company published in June 2013. The illustrations of this X-band system show four small rectangular flat-plate antennas mounted on top of the hull in the case of the M1 Abrams tank and M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles and around the sunroof of the Navistar MaxxPro armored vehicle.

Alico Systems has incorporated phased array technology into its new Broadband Distributed Aperture system. Four low profile antennas are designed to provide hemispherical coverage and autonomous orientation through electronic beam steering

Satellite communication terminal Broadband Distributed Aperture from Alico Systems on BMP Bradley (above) and MBT M1 Abrams

This is an extremely clever design for a broadband satellite dish system that adds nothing to the silhouette of the vehicle and which the company says eliminates any signal blocking that could be caused by a tower or load on top of the vehicle, or that could happen in specific directions with more conventional installations. systems. Alico says this includes full hemispherical coverage from zero degrees (horizon) to 90 degrees (zenith) and continuous coverage from 0 degrees to 360 degrees in azimuth. The system, which operates autonomously, implements an electronic beam control function that directs both the beam and tracks the satellite at a frequency of 100 Hz, that is, the system updates its calculations of the relative position of the satellite 100 times per second.

Distributed phased array antennas also eliminate keyhole and umbilical jamming problems. The first problem is related to the stabilization of electromechanical antenna systems, which have a field of view in elevation (vertical angle range) of less than 90 degrees, which leaves the sky area near the zenith potentially not covered by the antenna beam. The second problem is that in systems with an elevation field of view greater than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees, continuous tracking is disrupted when the satellite passes the zenith when the universal joint reaches its vertical limit and the azimuth joint must rotate 180 degrees to continue tracking. Wider beams can mitigate this problem, but highly directional antennas have narrow beam apertures, which forces a tradeoff. With some overlap between the areas served by phased array antennas, the transition between them is easily electronically controlled.

Full duplex systems are designed to handle voice, data and video streaming in motion; they can operate with a number of satellite constellations, including America's Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) and XTAR, Spain's SpainSat and Britain's Skynet. The system weighs 68 kg and consumes 700 watts at either 115 VAC or 28 VDC.

Elbit's new Elsat 2000E terminal uses an innovative passive waveguide panel. It has a diameter of 50 cm, a weight of 15 kg, offers a satellite data acquisition rate of 30 Mbps and a transmission to a satellite of 5 Mbps, as well as a triple tracking mechanism for reliable communication while on the move.

Antenna ELBIT ELSAT 2000E

Taking its MSR-2000 family as a basis, Elbit Systems introduced the 2000E next-generation antenna at the DSEI in London in September 2013. The new model significantly outperforms the previous Elsat 2000 terminal. The Elsat 2000E provides full Ku-band coverage; This terminal uses a new waveguide flat panel technology that the company describes as a significant performance improvement over the PCB emitter multi-panel technology used in the Elsat 2000.

The Elsat 2000E antenna has a diameter of 50 cm and a mass of 15 kg. The new antenna has twice the performance of its predecessor in the same form factor. Elbit claims speeds of 30 Mbps from satellite and 5 Mbps to satellite.

The main feature the company is focusing on is the advanced 100-degree elevation triple tracking mechanism, which improves tracking and re-capture while on the move. The company claims a G / T noise temperature ratio of seven dB / K (decibel / degree Kelvin), which is basically a measure of the signal-to-noise ratio that an antenna can achieve. The higher the ratio, the better it can extract a weak signal from background noise.

Like the larger Elsat 2100 antenna based on the same technology, the 2000E integrates with the Elbit InterSky 4M military satellite platform, which provides seamless line-of-sight, indirect-visibility and over-the-horizon communications.

According to a representative of the Elbit company, in order to obtain the maximum viewing angle, the system combines a flat-panel antenna with mechanical scanning. “It provides a 360 ° all-round viewing area and vertical sector from zero to 100 degrees, which is very different from other systems. Usually you have a complete saucer with the best directional action, but a very high profile, which makes it easier for the enemy to detect. "

X-band terminal from Ibetor

Low profile, as the designers strive for minimal visibility, is the main feature of the new Ib-Sotm 100X X-range terminal, which the Spanish company Ibetor showed at the Satellite 2014 exhibition in Washington. The antenna is only 20 cm high, has good aerodynamic efficiency and low visibility, while offering effective and reliable communications in what the company describes as “the most difficult terrain”.

Terminal Ib-Sotm 100X is designed for installation on ships, aircraft and ground vehicles. It includes Ibetor's Antenna Control Unit (ACU), consisting of an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), dual GPS receivers operating at 1 kHz, triaxial gyroscopes, accelerometers and magnetometers. This combination of devices delivers a claimed targeting accuracy of less than 0.3 degrees, satellite acquisition while the vehicle is moving, and “instant” re-acquisition, including through software that keeps the antenna mechanically scanned toward the satellite even if the signal is blocked. For this antenna, the following key parameters are declared: instantaneous frequency of 500 MHz, G / T factor of 7.5 dB / K and transmission rate to satellite up to 8 Mbit / s in the center of the beam. Depending on the configuration, the Ib-Sotm 100X terminal weighs between 75 and 80 kg. The system is already in service with the Spanish military.

Low-profile RaySat StealthRay 300X-M antenna from Gilat Satellite Networks is 55.6 cm long, 49 cm wide, 25 cm high and weighs 15 kg. Antenna control unit installed inside the car adds another 4.5 kg, but if it is not possible to add this unit, then the antenna can be used with the built-in MLT-1000 modem

Alternative from INDRA

The Sotm device from Spanish company Indra operates in the X and Ku bands, has a low profile antenna as an option and features built-in inertial navigation. The system provides satellite communications services for patrols via IP radios, as well as a high-capacity communications channel for brigade and battalion-level echelons. Indra also emphasizes that the device is designed to be installed on any type of vehicle and even small boats. Additional options include an extended Ku-band from 13.75 to 14.5 GHz, encryption, an uninterruptible power supply providing 20 minutes of continuous operation and an onboard generator capable of supplying power for over 10 hours.

GILAT SR300X-M

Following the system from Ibetor, another low-profile terminal appeared. On March 11, Israeli company Gilat Satellite Networks unveiled its RaySat StealthRay 300X-M. The StealthRay 300X-M terminal is designed to work with any X-band satellite, including WGS. It consists of several motion sensors, which, when the vehicle is moving over rough terrain, allow you to minimize the initial acquisition of the satellite, conduct accurate tracking and carry out "instant" re-capture.

The system is designed for easy installation on unprepared machines; it consists of an external antenna 55.6 cm long, 49 cm wide and 25 cm high and weighing 15 kg.

The smaller internal Antenna Control Unit (ACU) weighs an additional 4.5 kg. However, the SR300X-M can work with the built-in MLT-1000 modem, eliminating the need for an ACU.

For its new product, Gilat claims a G / T ratio of 2 dB / K, corresponding to 23 and 25 dBi transmit and receive gains. The antenna receives in the 7.25-7.75 GHz range and transmits in the 7.9-8.4 GHz range. The SR300 family also includes low profile antennas for Sotm Ku and Ka band applications.

Exelis' Gnomad provides communications with military and civilian satellites. The system is based on a low profile antenna that offers speeds up to 2 Mbps

DRS X46-V certification

Following the certification of the X46-V terminal for use with the US Department of Defense's high-capacity satellite networks announced last May by the company, DRS Technologies can now provide X-band access to the Global Information Grid (GIG) for isolated and distributed military units. ... Issued by the joint Satcom development center and the Army's Strategic Forces Command, the mandate allows X46-V users to connect to a Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) system with voice, data and video capabilities up to 6 Mbps. In addition to US troops, the military of Australia, Canada, Denmark, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and New Zealand can use the WGS grouping. In addition, operation on the Ky and Ka bands allows them to use other commercial and military satellite networks for increased flexibility and redundancy.

L-3 Linkabit, which manufactures various Sotm terminals, has received an updated Alsat Permanent Mobile Earth Station license to operate its Ku-band terminals with all official US satellites and other commercial vehicles; the company announced this in August 2013. Terminals covered by this license are L-3 Datron FSS-4180-LP (0.33x0.46 meters) or FSS-4180-LC (0.46 meters in diameter) small aperture tracking antennas and satellite communications modem Linkabit MPM-1000 Network Centric IP. The US Army uses the L-3 terminals in its automated communications system for the operational-tactical command and control level of the Warfighter Information Network - Tactical (WIN-T) and the Marine Corps in its Network On-The-Move system.

GNOMAD on STRYKER machine

Exelis has integrated the Gnomad (Global Network On the Move Active Distribution) system into the Stryker armored vehicle, thereby installing a battle-proven system on another key platform of the American army. The first installation was carried out during the seventh Expeditionary Force Combat Improvement Experiment, conducted at Fort Benning. Exelis says Gnomad is easy to install and requires no machine modification.

The system consists of a satellite dish, radio frequency components and a modular base chassis that can be installed in a wide variety of military-registered vehicles, including Humvees, as well as commercial vehicles. Low profile antenna (114.3 x 88.9 x 17.78 centimeters) weighs less than 38.55 kg with base chassis adding another 25.31 kg; it can work with both military and commercial satellites. Gnomad has an open architecture, that is, it can work in conjunction with many radios and satellite modems, providing full duplex transmission of voice, data, and in the case of modems also video.

When connected to UHF and VHF radios, such as Sincgars and the built-in GPS receiver, the system allows you to directly embed your forces data into the overall operational image. Transmission is carried out at frequencies from 14.0 to 14.5 Hz, and reception at frequencies of 10.95-11.7 GHz or 11.7-12.75 GHz. The Gnomad system offers transfer rates up to 512 kbps and receive rates up to 2 Mbps. The G / T ratio is at least 8 dB / K at a vertical angle of 30 degrees and a temperature of 23 ° C.

Terminal SWE-DISH from Rockwell Collins

The integration of Rockwell Collins' Swe-Dish CommuniCase Technology terminal and Saab's four-axis stabilized platforms has resulted in the Sotm terminal, designed to withstand tough sea and land conditions. It can be mounted on a variety of vehicles ranging from light SUVs and small boats to mobile control rooms and medium landing craft. In all of these applications, the high speeds and movement in different planes make the installation and maintenance of satellite communications a very difficult task. Rockwell Collins notes that the system can easily handle large waves at boat speeds of up to 50 knots and in rough terrain at vehicle speeds over 40 km / h, automatically re-establishing a lost link within one second while still providing broadband speeds. up to 10 Mbps. Rockwell Collins claims a total system weight of about 140 kg, a G / T ratio of 19 dB / K at 20 degrees of elevation and 11 GHz.

Thales' solutions operate in the X, Ku and Ka bands and offer connectivity to combat radio networks such as the VHF PR4G network of the French Venus program

Bulletproof version from THALES

The French army first deployed its Sotm systems in Afghanistan in 2010, and also used Thales-developed equipment in Mali, which was mainly installed on VAB wheeled armored personnel carriers. These systems, in X, Ku and Ka-band configurations, provide troops deployed in remote and unfamiliar areas with continuous voice, data and video transmission. These Sotm systems also provide long-range communications with combat networks. For example, in the case of the French army's Venus program, it is mainly the VHF PR4G network, although they also integrate easily with UHF and VHF systems. An active antenna (and Thales was one of the first to introduce phased array technology in its products) with “incomparable” off-road tracking performance, state-of-the-art communications protocols, jamming resistance, IED transceivers, and even a bulletproof antenna cowl provides a stable and reliable satellite communications.

The possibilities of mobile satellite communications are attracting many innovations and no doubt many more new systems will come into this area.

Materials used:
www.monch.com
www.gdc4s.com
www.harris.com
www.alicosystems.com
www.elbitsystems.com
www.ibetor.es
www.gilat.com
www.exelisinc.com
www.thalesgroup.com

Mobile satellite communications

Introduction

Any communication system ultimately depends on some basic system parameters that determine the quality of communication.

So, if for cellular communication such a basic parameter is the height of the base station antenna, then for satellite communication systems it is the type of orbit of its space segment and the characteristics of the orbit. In general, any satellite communication system consists of three segments, as mentioned above: space (or space constellation), ground (ground service stations, gateway stations) and user segment (directly the terminals located at the consumer).

Figure 1 The structure of the satellite communication system on the example of the VSAT network of the State Enterprise "Cosmic" communication "

According to the type of orbits used, satellite communication systems are divided into two classes: systems with satellites in the geostationary orbit (GEO) (altitude 36,000 km; the number of satellites for the GEO constellation - 3, one satellite covers 34% of the earth's surface, speech transmission delay for the global communications - 600 ms) and non-geostationary.

Figure 2. Orbits and coverage areas of the earth's surface using the example of the geostationary space constellation of the INMARSAT system

Non-geostationary satellite systems, in turn, are subdivided into medium-altitude MEO (altitude - 5000-15000 km; number of spacecraft - 8-12; coverage area by one satellite - 25-28%; delay in voice transmission for global communications - 250-400 ms) and low-orbit LEO (altitude - 500-2000 km; number of spacecraft - 48-66; coverage area by one satellite - 3-7%; delay in voice transmission for global communications - 170-300 ms).

Most of the existing satellite communication systems have geostationary satellite constellations, which is easily explained: a small number of satellites, coverage of the entire surface of the earth. However, the large signal delay makes them applicable, as a rule, only for radio and television broadcasting. For radiotelephone communication systems, a large signal delay is extremely undesirable, since it leads to poor communication quality and an increase in the cost of the user segment. Therefore, initially, most satellite communication systems provided mainly fixed satellite communication (communication between stationary objects), and only with the introduction of digital communication methods and the launch of non-geostationary spacecraft, mobile satellite communication received wide development. Note that modern mobile satellite communication systems, firstly, are compatible with traditional terrestrial mobile communication systems (primarily with digital cellular), and, secondly, the interaction of mobile satellite radio communication networks with the public telephone network is possible at any level (local, intrazonal, intercity).

Major global mobile satellite operators known in Russia

System "Iridium" (international consortium "Iridium lls", Washington). The system of global mobile personal satellite communications "Iridium" was intended to provide communication services with mobile and fixed objects located throughout the globe. The space segment of the system consisted of 66 main satellites (orbit altitude 780 km above the Earth's surface) and 6 reserve satellites (645 km). The system provided subscribers with the following services: voice transmission (2.4 Kbps), data transmission and telefax at the same speed, paging and location determination.

Being a very expensive project (more than $ 5 billion), "Iridium" at the initial stage of development set ultra-high prices for terminals and traffic, mistakenly focusing only on very wealthy consumers of the service. In addition, during the operation, technical and financial problems unforeseen by the project arose, which led the consortium to bankruptcy.

System "Globalstar" (company "Globalstar ltd.", San Jose, California). The system of global mobile personal satellite communication "Globalstar" is designed to provide communication services with mobile and fixed objects located on the territory of the world between 700 * N. and 700 * S

Portable terminals of the "Globalstar" system are produced in several modifications to ensure the possibility of their use both for organizing communication in the "Globalstar" system and in the networks of terrestrial cellular communications of the GSM, AMPS, CDMA standards.

The space segment of the system is a constellation of 48 primary and 8 backup satellites, weighing less than 450 kg, located in circular orbits at an altitude of 1414 km above the Earth's surface. First generation satellites are designed to operate at full load for at least 7.5 years.

To cover the populated territory of the globe, it is planned to build about 50 gateway stations, providing maximum coverage (up to 85%) of the earth's surface by the space segment of the system. At the first stage of the development of the system, 38 gateways were built. There are 3 such stations in operation in Russia: in the Moscow region (Pavlov Posad), in Novosibirsk and in Khabarovsk. These stations ensure the provision of mobile communication services with a high quality of service practically throughout the territory of Russia south of 700 N. Each of these stations is connected to the public network of Russia. The Globalstar system has been in operation in Russia since May 2000.

ICO system (international company ICO Global Communications). The system of global mobile personal satellite communication "ICO" is designed to provide communication services with mobile and fixed objects throughout the world, including the circumpolar regions. ICO Global Communications was established on the initiative of the international organization INMARSAT. It is a truly international organization. No country plays a dominant role in it. More than 60 companies around the world are ICO investors.

It is planned that the ICO system will work in conjunction with cellular communication systems, providing services to regions and areas not covered by cellular radio communication systems. According to the project, most of the subscriber terminals of the ICO system will be made up of personal pocket telephones capable of operating in two modes (satellite / terrestrial cellular). The approximate cost of a subscriber terminal of the ICO system is $ 1,000, one minute of traffic is $ 1.

The space segment of the system will be represented by a constellation of 10 main and 2 backup satellites in MEO-orbit at an altitude of about 10,390 km above the Earth's surface.

A feature of this system will be a specially formed "IcoNet" network, which will connect twelve satellite access nodes (SDNs) located around the world with "intelligent" communication lines, and will provide fast connection of public networks with mobile terminals and mobile terminals to each other, regardless of from their location. On the territory of Russia, it is planned to build one USD. The infrastructure of the terrestrial segment of the ICO system is based on the proven architecture of GSM networks, as well as standard components used in large quantities to ensure the compatibility of the ICO system with other terrestrial cellular communication standards.

The ICO system plans to provide users with the following types of services: teleservices, transport services, services provided in the GSM system, messaging and roaming services.

Telecommunications services will provide services such as digital telephony, emergency calls, group 3 fax transmission at speeds up to 14.4 Kbps and short message services. At the same time, digital telephony will provide voice quality similar to that provided by existing standards for land mobile radio communications.

In addition, the ICO system plans to provide services for the transmission of low-speed transparent and opaque data in asynchronous mode at speeds of 300, 1200, 2400, 4800 and 9600 bps and transparent data in synchronous mode at speeds of 1200, 2400, 4800 and 9600 bits /With.

Due to the financial problems of the consortium, it was decided to merge ICO Global Communications with Teledesic Corporation, which will delay the start of services until 2003. One USD on the territory of Russia is supposed to be built by the same date. It is expected that 450,000 subscribers will use the ICO system in Russia.

System "INMARSAT"(company "INMARSAT ltd.", London). INMARSAT owns satellites in geostationary orbit at the following positions: 54 * W, 15.5 * W, 64.5 * E, 178 * E. At the same time, almost global communication between 75 * S latitude is provided. and 75 * N

More than 50 earth stations operate in the INMARSAT system, providing communication with mobile equipment installed on sea and river vessels, drilling platforms, airplanes, vehicles (practically none in Russia), in businessmen's cases.

The following types of mobile stations are used: "INMARSAT-A", "INMARSAT-B", "INMARSAT-M", "INMARSAT-mini-M", "INMARSAT-C", "INMARSAT-D +" (pager with an answer), " INMARSAT-aero "(various types). The listed types of stations have different physical and electrical characteristics, which determines a large difference in the price of stations, the tariff for communication and its quality (information transmission speed, voice transmission quality).

At present, about 170 thousand stations of all types operate in the INMARSAT system, of which about 10 thousand have Russian numbers (they are Russian).

ORBCOM system (ORBCOM Global, Dalas, VA). Communication system "ORBCOM" is designed for two-way data transmission and location of objects using low-orbit artificial earth satellites (from 28 to 48 satellites). Data transmission on the Earth-satellite link is carried out at a speed of 4.8 Kbps, and on the Earth-to-satellite link - 2.4 Kbps. The system was developed in the USA by ORBCOM Global to meet the needs for information exchange with areas remote from the existing terrestrial telecommunications infrastructure.

The main disadvantage of the system is the lack of a telephone service.

News from global satellite operators

One of the most sensational and well-known global satellite communications projects is the project of the Iridium concern. In November 2000, the US bankruptcy court transferred management of Iridium to a venture capital fund. As a result, this seemingly bankrupt company was awarded a $ 72 million project to equip the US Department of Defense with mobile satellite communications. This is all the more interesting because the competition was won against another large and most dynamically developing operator at the moment - the company "Globalstar".

This year was generally unsuccessful for Globalstar (despite the receipt of a large order for the equipment of bus handsets in Brazil and the start of operation of the system in Russia). It began with the refusal of the main shareholders (Loral Space & Communications Ltd and QUALCOMM) to further participate in the Globalstar projects. However, a little later, the much-needed $ 183 million was found, and the company continued its activities. In November, Globalstar announced its results for the third quarter of 2000. The company's revenues amounted to $ 1.4 million, losses - $ 97.5 million. Compared to the same period in 1999, the company's losses in terms of one share increased almost fivefold and amounted to $ 1 per share (in 1999 - 20 cents per share). share). At the end of the third quarter, the company served 21,300 subscribers, which is double the number at the end of the second quarter of 2000. The management of the company believes that this is extremely small for the successful functioning of the global satellite communications system, but on the whole assesses the project as viable and claims that the company has the necessary financial resources for its activities until the end of May 2001.

At the same time, the losses of Globalstar did not entail a deterioration in the financial position of its major shareholder, QUALCOMM (a provider of satellite data transmission systems, whose competitor in this business is ORBCOMGlobal with services such as Trackmaile-, "Omni-track" and "Euteltrack"). This was mainly associated with other projects of the concern. QUALCOMM owns the main patents for CDMA wireless technology, WCDMA 3G technology (third generation mobile communication, standard developed by European companies), cdma2000 3G technology (developed by QUALCOMM).

American Mobile Satellite Corp has continued to develop its fleet management communications and data transmission systems over its ARDIS terrestrial network.

The Japanese company NTT DoCoMo provides communications services for the national fleet. The Australian company "Optus" serves over 9000 subscribers. The European EMCAT network offers a full range of mobile services, while the Belgian mobile satellite network IRIS provides satellite data transmission.

The project of the ICO Global Communications company has been suspended. Commissioning of the system is planned not earlier than 2003.

On October 20, 2000, Boeing Satellite Systems successfully launched the Thuraya 1 satellite as part of its own project for the deployment of a mobile satellite communications system, which is supposed to cover the Middle East, North and Central Africa, Europe, Central Asia and India (the number of residents - up to 1, 8 billion people).

Mobile satellite operators in Russia. "INMARSAT"

After the termination of the activities of the Iridium company, two mobile satellite operators remained in Russia: INMARSAT and Globalstar.

The INMARSAT system was created in 1979 in the USSR to establish satellite communications with ships and ensure the safety of navigation. INMARSAT currently operates a global satellite constellation that is used to provide voice, facsimile telex and multimedia services for mobile users. The satellites of the INMARSAT system are located in geostationary orbit. Guaranteed communication is provided on average from 70 ° S. up to 70 ° N Each satellite covers about a third of the Earth.

However, although the INMARSAT system has quite a lot of subscribers in Russia, it cannot be said that its use is massive. The main reason is the high price of user terminals and the high tariff for communication. For example, the tariff for 1 minute of telephone communication when using various types of subscriber stations is: for "INMARSAT-A" - about 6.0-6.5 dollars, for "INMARSAT-B" - about 4.0 dollars, for "INMARSAT- mini-M "- about 2.5 dollars, for" INMARSAT-aero "- about 6.0-6.5 dollars. The cost of terminals ranges from $ 3000 to $ 15000. Thus, the most widespread standard "INMARSAT-mini-M" has the dimensions of a "laptop", weight is about 2 kg, the price is $ 3000.

Models of satellite portable terminals of the "INMARSAT-mini-M" type available for sale in the Russian Federation

Figure 3.ТТ-3060А

The mobile phone TT-3060A of the INMARSAT satellite system is intended for the transmission of telephone and fax messages, data and e-mail. The built-in battery and voltage converter provide non-volatile operation for 48 hours in standby mode and 2.5 hours in talk mode. The handset, 2-wire RJ-11 fax jack, and Hayes-compatible 2.4 Kbps data port have personal phone numbers (4 in total). The ability to protect against unauthorized access is provided by the built-in SIM card reader. It is possible to connect STU-IIB / STU-III cryptographic equipment and use image transfer software. Magnesium alloy body weighing less than 2.2kg.

Rice. 4. WorldPhone Hybrid

WorldPhone Hybrid provides access to the international telephone network with fax, data and e-mail capabilities. Key Features: 4.8 Kbps - voice, 2.4 Kbps - fax, 3 hours talk time, backlit LCD display, speakerphone, short message service (SMS), voice / fax mail, call forwarding, Notebook.

Mobile satellite operators in Russia. "Globalstar"

The subsidiary company GlobalTel (a joint venture between Globalstar and Rostelecom) began rendering its services in the Russian Federation in May 2000. At the moment, these are telephony (voice transmission) and call forwarding. The system also provides, but has not yet implemented the following services: data transmission, facsimile communication, transmission and reception of short messages, global roaming, object location, voice mail, calling emergency services.

The space segment includes a constellation of 48 LEO (and 4 backup) satellites, providing coverage from 70 ° N. up to 70 ° and placed 6 satellites in 8 circular orbits at an altitude of 1414 km. The system of low-orbit satellites can drastically reduce the cost of a subscriber terminal and minutes of conversation.

The user segment consists of portable mobile and stationary terminal devices. The devices can operate in several modes (up to three). Two- and three-mode devices, in addition to access to the Globalstar system, can also be used to access terrestrial cellular networks in the GSM, AMPS, CDMA standards.

Prices for subscriber terminals: mobile $ 1000-1900 (depending on the manufacturer), stationary - from $ 3000. Rate for 1 min. outgoing traffic in Russia - $ 1.2-2.0 (including the tariff of the public network).

Models of satellite portable mobile terminals available on the Russian market that support Globalstar services

Rice. 5. Portable subscriber mobile terminal Ericsson

Ericsson dual-mode terminal. The contract for the production of handsets also includes the supply of car and / or fixed subscriber terminals. Operating modes - Globalstar | GSM. Dimensions mm - 160 × 60 × 37. Weight - 350g. Talk time Globalstar / GSM hours -?. Standby time Globalstar / GSM hours - 5/36.

Rice. 6. Portable subscriber mobile terminal Telit

Telit terminal provides communication in Globalstar modes | GSM and has the following characteristics: dimensions mm - 220 × 65 × 45; weight - 300g; talk time of Globalstar / GSM hours -?; standby time for Globalstar / GSM hours - 36/36.

Rice. 7. Qualcomm Portable Mobile Subscriber Terminal

Qualcomm Tri-Mode Terminal - Globalstar | AMPS | CDMA. Dimensions mm - 178 × 57 × 44. Weight - 357g. Talk time Globalstar / APMS / CDMA hours - 1/1/3. Standby time Globalstar / AMPS / CDMA hours - 5/7/25. Display 4 × 16 characters, notebook for 99 numbers, fast auto-dialing, voice mail, message reception, caller ID.

Conclusion

At the moment, despite certain setbacks (bankruptcy of the Iridium concern, suspension of the project of the ICO company, losses of Globalstar), mobile satellite communications have occupied their own (what?) Segment of the world communication market. Sales of user terminals are growing steadily, the number of telecom operators is increasing (satellite launches by Boeing, the development of a new generation of small satellites by Intersputnik), and investor interest is not weakening. At the same time, it is necessary to constantly monitor developments in this market segment and keep "a finger on the pulse" so that users of mobile satellite phones in Russia do not find themselves in a situation similar to the one that developed in Russia with the termination of the Iridium concern, when the owners did not know what to do with pipes that have turned into a heap of iron in an instant. Let's hope that such serious cataclysms will not be repeated in the foreseeable future, and the cost of user terminals and traffic will gradually become equal to the cost of conventional cellular communications.

In contact with

classmates

Coverage area - anywhere in the world.

If you want to be sure of your satellite communications - choose Iridium... The satellites of this operator provide stable coverage around the globe - including the Arctic and Antarctic.

Satellite communication from a low-orbit (780 km) operator Iridium has earned a high level of trust among private and corporate users due, first of all, to its unsurpassed stability, as well as one hundred percent coverage of the Earth's territory, which is most important for extreme travelers and large companies, for example, those leading offshore developments, etc. By cons Iridium with some stretch it is possible to attribute its relative high cost, as well as not quite convenient tariffication in terms of payment terms. However, it is clear that pricing is a product of competition, which means that the level of competition allows Iridium to charge its own services accordingly.

Inmarsat

Coverage area

If you need satellite communications at sea and on land - choose Inmarsat... This operator guarantees a stable global coverage with the exception of the circumpolar regions.

Satellite operator Inmarsat, first of all, is associated with reliability, supported by a low cost of use. Lately Inmarsat is making rapid strides in the development of airspace, offering seamless Internet on board air liners, it is obvious that sooner or later this trend will capture the entire world air fleet. Inmarsat is a leader in this field. The disadvantages of the operator include incomplete coverage, as well as the cumbersomeness of satellite equipment, mostly focused on commercial use. Satellite Phones Inmarsat in short supply and not always available. However Inmarsat the undisputed industry leader, and if your routes are fully within its coverage area, then the choice Inmarsat more than relevant.

Thuraya

Coverage area

Coverage area. The regions with the best satellite connectivity are highlighted in bright blue:

Thuraya is great if you prefer to travel around European Russia, as well as Europe, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia and Africa.
Satellite Phones Thuraya, unlike the models of other operators, they can work both in the satellite network and in the terrestrial GSM900 / 1800 networks of cellular operators.

Arab satellite operator Thuraya attractive for several reasons. Firstly, Thuraya offers a wide selection of satellite phones in terms of their functionality closest to mobile. There are even two-SIM options available, allowing you to switch to satellite communications only in areas where there is no cellular coverage. Extremely attractive tariffs, GPS navigation functionality, as well as satellite phones with GSM capabilities - this is a very competitive package even from a new player in the satellite services market, which, in comparison with other participants, is Thuraya... The operator has practically no weak points if your route is fully consistent with its coverage area, and it is fragmented enough. If the route leaves the zone, then the lack of coverage can be considered an obvious disadvantage; GlobalStar is not for it. GlobalStar is still extremely attractive, has its own market share and continues to find new customers, however, the prospects for the group's development remain unclear, and so far no qualitative progress has been seen in resolving the problems of communication disruptions and the supply of satellite phones to customers.

The AltegroSky group of companies is a team of qualified specialists with many years of experience, whose efficient and well-coordinated work has allowed us to take and maintain a leading position in the satellite communications industry.

AltegroSky in regions

The federal satellite communications operator AltegroSky Group of Companies is represented in almost all regions of the Russian Federation. A developed partner network allows our Clients to contact regional offices and partners of AltegroSky Group of Companies, which significantly reduces the periods of negotiations, approval and equipment supply.

Strategic partners

AltegroSky works with the world's leading manufacturers of broadband satellite systems: Hughes Network Systems (HN, HX, HT), ViaSat Inc (Surf Beam), VT iDirect (iNFINITI, Evolution), as well as Comtech, Istar LLC, Paradise Datacom, NJRC, Terrasat, C-Com, Intellian Technologies, Cobham, NewTec, Iridium, Inmarsat, Thuraya and others.

Coverage areas

AltegroSky Group of Companies is the only operator in Russia that uses 10 artificial earth satellites (AES) in its network, providing full coverage of the territory of the Russian Federation, CIS countries, Europe and the Middle East.

Infrastructure

AltegroSky Group of Companies is one of the largest VSAT operators in Russia and Eastern Europe. To ensure the high quality of the services provided, the company pays special attention to the development and equipping of infrastructure.

The services offered by the satellite provider AltegroSky allow solving a wide range of tasks aimed at improving the efficiency of operational management and automating business processes. Tasks are in demand in all market segments: from government organizations and ministries (within the framework of federal programs), large industrial and mining enterprises, financial companies and telecom operators to medium and small businesses.

Thanks to many years of experience in the satellite services market, staff qualifications, technological expertise and in-house developments, the company annually confirms its leading position in the market.

Also, the company offers solutions for the segment of satellite communications in motion. The advantage of COTM solutions from Altegrosky is the ability to provide the listed services in aggregate zones, removing regional restrictions on the use of satellite services only under certain AES boards. The second significant advantage is the low tariffs for satellite services compared to global MSS networks.

The AltegroSky group of companies includes satellite operators CJSC Race Telecom, CJSC SETTELECOM, LLC Astra-Internet, CJSC Moskovsky Teleport and system integrator LLC Altegro Engineering, providing satellite communications services throughout the Russian Federation, countries CIS, Europe and the Middle East

The activities of satellite operators are fully licensed.

AltegroSky accounts for about 22% of VSAT installed in Russia *. As of the end of 2018, more than 23 thousand subscriber satellite terminals ** are serviced under the AltegroSky brand ** and more than 900 certified partner companies operate in the Russian Federation, as well as 1,300 corporate clients in various business sectors.

Satellite operator AltegroSky provides a full range of satellite communication services:

• Mobile satellite communications (based on Iridium, Inmarsat, Thuraya platforms)

Industry solutions for various market segments:

Satellite communications for the state:

• Closed departmental data transmission networks
• Mobile communication center (broadcasts, telephony, videoconferencing, Internet access)
• Transfer of information from emergency sites
• Education
• Sphere of Public Administration
• Provision of services to the public

Satellite communications for business:

• Oil and gas industry
• Gas station network
• Extractive industry and exploration
• Electricity industry
• Banking activities
• Building
• Trade networks
• Medium and small business
• Recreation, tourism, sports
• River and sea shipping

Satellite networks of DVB-S2 / S2X standard, operating via satellites: Yamal-401 (90 ° E), Yamal-402 (55 ° E), Yamal-300K (183 ° E), Express-AM6 ( 53 ° E), Express-AM5 (140 ° E), Express-AM8 (14 ° W), Express-AM33 (96.5 ° E) ), Ka-Sat (9 ° E), Eutelsat 172B (172 ° E), NSS-12 (57 ° E), JCSAT-3A (128 ° E .) and providing full coverage of the territory The Russian Federation, as well as the CIS countries, Europe and the Middle East.

Modern teleports in Moscow and Khabarovsk equipped with antenna posts
in the Ku-band (4 x 9 m (Vertex), 2 x 6 m (Vertex), 1 x 4.5 m (Siemens);
in the C-band (1 x 3.7 m (Andrew).

Line of equipment from the world's leading manufacturers broadband satellite systems: Hughes Network Systems (HN, HX, JUPITER HT), ViaSat Inc (Surf Beam) and VT iDirect (INFINITI, Evolution), as well as Comtech, EF, Data Corporation, Paradise Datacom, NJRC, Terrasat, C- Com and others.

20 Central stations of satellite communications, including 10 in Moscow, 5 in Khabarovsk, others (5), as well as own access points on MMTS-9 and MMTS-10.

Network bandwidth
- satellite segment of the network - more than 6 Gbps;
- ground segment of the network - more than 50 Gbps.

Central office in Moscow
Technical Center - CCS "Bear Lakes", Moscow region
Regional offices: Yekaterinburg, Irkutsk, St. Petersburg, Tyumen, Khabarovsk

Race Telecom CJSC founded in 1997. Commencement of commercial activity as a satellite operator - October 2004. Until September 2010, Race Telecom provided communication services to the corporate users market under the SPIN trademark. In April 2010, ZAO Settelecom (trade mark AltegroSky) acquired 100% of the shares of Race Telecom CJSC.

CJSC "SETTELECOM" was founded in October 2003 as part of a project to create a federal satellite communications network of the VSAT class to provide broadband satellite access services in Russia and the CIS countries. Commencement of commercial activity as a satellite operator - November 2004 Settelecom is the official distributor of Hughes Network Systems, LLC (Hughes, USA), C-Com Satellite Systems Inc. (iNetVu, Canada), Istar (EASTAR, Russia). Settelecom has research and training centers.
Settelecom has research and training centers.

* The traditional annual rating of satellite operators is presented on the information map "VSAT networks in Russia", published as an appendix to the January issue of the magazine " Standard ».

** At the end of 2018, AltegroSky is in the rating ComNews Research with 23,116 VSAT stations and is the largest commercial satellite operator. AltegroSky is the leader among Russian satellite operators in terms of the number of VSAT installed in the Central, Volga, Ural, Far East and is in the TOP 3 in the South, North-West and North Caucasian Federal Districts.

AltegroSky is your reliable partner in the satellite communications market!

The first mobile satellite operator in the world. The only ones to offer a full range of modern satellite communications services for maritime, terrestrial and air applications.

Thuraya- really inexpensive (outgoing from $ 0.25, included in satellite mode - free) mobile satellite communications for 1/3 of the world. Combined satellite + cell phone with a single number + GPS receiver with an accuracy of 100 meters. Available on 35% of the territory of the Russian Federation.

Globalstar- a provider of mobile satellite communications services of a new generation, providing telephone communications to those areas where communications services were previously unavailable or limited. Globalstar provides access to voice and data transmission from virtually any populated area of ​​the world.

Iridium- a wireless satellite network designed to provide telephone communications anywhere in the world at any time. Universal accessible service - new opportunities for business and life. Does not have a license to provide services on the territory of the Russian Federation. Available throughout Russia.

Satellite communication Inmarsat

The Inmarsat system is a fixed satellite communication system, which in itself already determines the directions of its use. The system is widely used on sea and river vessels, in addition, users of the system are transport companies, airlines, air passengers and air traffic control authorities, employees of government agencies, civil defense units, rescue organizations and departments of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, as well as heads of state.

Inmarsat is the first and time-tested mobile satellite communication system (it has existed for over 25 years). The third generation of the system is now in operation. Four geostationary satellites provide coverage for the entire globe, excluding the poles. The call from the Inmarsat terminal goes to the satellite, which lowers it to the ground station (LES). LES is responsible for forwarding calls to / for public switched telephone networks and the Internet. If in any area there is an increased activity of subscribers, the satellite allocates several additional beams to work with this region.

In addition to standard telephones, the system supports equipment that allows tracking the location of subscribers. Terminals of the Inmarsat-C standard are used both for transferring text messages and for monitoring moving objects (ships, cars, aircraft). The system is used for ensuring the safety of navigation (GMDSS) and for air traffic control.

Services available to subscribers of the Inmarsat satellite communication system:

• Telephone
• Email
• Data transmission (including high-speed)
• Telex (for some standards)

Advantages of the Inmarsat satellite communication system:

• Is the official system for ensuring the safety of navigation
• Confidential enough
• There is an online billing system that allows you to view your account status, detailed statistics of phone calls from anywhere in the world, and print it out
• Incoming calls - free

Disadvantages of the Inmarsat satellite communication system:

• The relatively high cost of phones (from $ 3000)
• Relatively high cost of outgoing calls ($ 2.80)
• Relatively large size and weight of the terminals (the size of a laptop, weighing about 2 kg)
• The need to obtain permission to use the phone in each specific country (TESSCOM sells phones with permission for use in Russia, but obtaining permission to use the phone in other countries may take some time due to the need to draw up a large number of documents, pay fees, etc. etc.)

Thuraya satellite communications

The system was originally designed to serve the region with 1.8 million potential subscribers. Consisting of two satellites, it is designed to serve 13,750 telephone channels simultaneously. The system is adapted to use both satellite and cellular communication channels. It is often more profitable to make calls via satellite than using roaming, more than 5 times. Available on 35% of the territory of the Russian Federation.

Services available to subscribers of the Thuraya satellite communication system:

• Telephone
• Email
• Data transfer

Advantages of the Thuraya satellite communication system:

• Small size of phones
• Relatively low cost of phones (from $ 866)
• Single number for satellite and cellular communication
• Low cost of calls (outgoing - from $ 0.25, incoming in satellite mode - free)

Disadvantages of the Thuraya satellite communication system:

• Available only on 35% of the territory of the Russian Federation. After the launch of the second satellite, it will be available in 80% of the territory of the Russian Federation.

Satellite communication Globalstar

The Globalstar system is a mobile satellite communications system. It was originally formed as a system designed to interact with existing cellular networks. This means that being in the coverage area of ​​the cellular network with which Globalstar has a contract, the phone works like a cell phone, and outside the cellular network it switches to the satellite channel.

The system is designed for a general consumer. Currently, it is successfully used by both individuals and organizations. The most active users of the Globalstar system are such industries as oil and gas production and processing, subsoil exploration (geology and geophysics), precious metals production and processing, construction, and energy. In addition, this system can be successfully used on any type of transport (including road transport), in the Ministry of Emergencies, in the army, in the navy, etc.

Satellite communications in the Globalstar system are provided by 48 LEO satellites. Receiving the subscriber's signal, several satellites simultaneously broadcast it to the nearest ground gateway. The ground station selects the strongest signal and routes it over the terrestrial networks to the called party.

Globalstar is the only mobile satellite communication system that almost completely covers the entire territory of the Russian Federation (full coverage from West to East and stable reception up to 74 degrees in the North).

Services available to subscribers of the Globalstar satellite communication system:

• Telephone
• Data transfer
• Short Message Service (SMS)
• Paging

Advantages of the Globalstar satellite communication system:

• Works throughout the globe, except for the polar regions
• Very portable and lightweight phones, slightly larger and weighing slightly more than a cell phone
• Easy to use, there are detailed instructions in Russian
• Relatively low cost of phones (from $ 699)
• Relatively low cost of calls (from $ 1.39 when using a satellite channel, even cheaper when switching to a cellular channel)
• A wide range of optional accessories including car kits, fax machines and more

Disadvantages of the Globalstar satellite communication system:

• Permission to use is not required, however, before importing such a phone into each specific country, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with its legislation - in some countries the use of phones is prohibited or limited

Satellite communication Iridium

With 66 LEO satellites, Iridium provides 100% Earth coverage. However, in 4 countries the system does not work: North. Korea, Hungary, Poland, North. Sri Lanka. Available on the territory of the Russian Federation, but not yet licensed. Due to the short distance to the satellite and the high speed of the satellites, the signal is transmitted practically without delay. In areas where cellular communication is available, the phone works like a cell phone.

Services available to subscribers of the Iridium satellite communication system:

• Telephone
• Data transfer
• Paging

Advantages of the Iridium satellite communication system:

• Works practically all over the world
• Smallest phones of all satellite (slightly larger than a cell phone)
• Automatic switching between satellite and cellular
• Relatively low cost of calls (from $ 1.00 when using a satellite channel, even cheaper when switching to a cellular channel)
• Incoming calls - free
• Voice and echo delays are virtually invisible compared to systems using medium orbit and geostationary satellites

Disadvantages of the Iridium satellite communication system:

• The system is not yet licensed on the territory of the Russian Federation