BAE Systems and Stellar Blu Solutions complete multi-orbit antenna qualification and type certification for in-flight connectivity
BROOMFIELD, Colo. - BAE Systems' partner Stellar Blu Solutions in Fort Worth, Texas, has received supplemental type certification for the multi-orbit Sidewinder aero terminal, which uses BAE Systems' Ku-band electronically scanned antenna (ESA). This certification allows the companies to begin mass production and installation of antennas for in-flight connectivity on commercial aircraft, business jets, and military and government platforms.
"This milestone serves as a building block as we advance these capabilities for our commercial and military customers," said Paula Burns, vice president and general manager of Tactical Solutions for BAE Systems Space and Mission Systems in Broomfield, Colo.
The ESA completed its DO-160 airborne equipment qualification in March. The antenna moved directly to production after initial qualification, demonstrating its design maturity and product quality. Following flight testing in June, the Sidewinder terminal received its first supplemental type certification (STC) from the Federal Aviation Administration, enabling airlines to integrate the system onto regional jets. Global performance validation and testing with a second aircraft, including in polar regions, will continue.
With these milestones, BAE Systems and Stellar Blu have increased production and started shipping to fulfill over 1,000 existing orders, including several hundred installations scheduled for the next year. The companies are developing next-generation terminals focused on Ku and Ka low-Earth orbit (LEO) optimized systems.
"The need for quality in-flight connectivity is growing every day, as displayed by our already considerable number of orders," Burns said. "This is a major milestone for both BAE Systems and Stellar Blu."
BAE Systems produces the transmit antenna, receive antenna, and antenna control software for the Sidewinder terminal, which Stellar Blu integrates. The Sidewinder kit includes all components needed to support internet service providers offering multi-orbit connectivity. Integrator kits are available for government applications. Stellar Blu handled the qualification and STC process for the terminal.
"Our collaboration is foundational to our success, which is reflected in our backlog and the overwhelming interest in every aero market," said Tracy Trent, CEO of Stellar Blu Solutions. "We continue to invest in the adaptation of Sidewinder with airframe original equipment manufacturers and the development of new products, utilizing proven BAE Systems technology to bring a range of solutions to our customers."
