Breakthrough multilink connectivity proven in live demonstrations, paving the way for safe integration of unmanned aircraft into shared airspace
Honeywell Aerospace announced the successful validation of a new satellite communications antenna designed to enable safe, reliable command-and-control of unmanned aircraft flying beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). Developed at Honeywell Aerospace’s European R&D center in Brno, Czechia as part of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Iris Global program, this breakthrough marks a major advancement towards scaling routine commercial drone operations.
The lightweight antenna provides continuous, resilient connectivity essential for real-time flight control, airspace awareness, and conflict avoidance. These core capabilities are required for BVLOS services such as infrastructure inspection, logistics, and emergency response. The technology was validated in partnership with Viasat using its highly reliable satellite network under real flight conditions.
“As regulators and operators prepare for scaled BVLOS operations, resilient command-and-control connectivity is foundational,” said Martin Mlaskač, Senior Technical Manager at Honeywell Aerospace. “Flight testing at Budkovice Airport confirmed that combining satellite and terrestrial communication links ensures operators maintain positive control of the aircraft even in demanding or complex scenarios.”
During the demonstrations, operators were able to adjust flight trajectories and maintain safe separation from other airspace users when potential conflicts were detected, including scenarios where another drone crossed a planned flight path. Honeywell Aerospace’s antenna was integrated with its VersaWave satcom system, enabling seamless switching between satellite and terrestrial networks to maintain uninterrupted command-and-control.
Demonstrating safe integration into shared airspace
The flights formed part of a broader test campaign showcasing how resilient connectivity supports safe drone integration into airspace shared with crewed aircraft. Several missions were conducted within a U-space environment—Europe’s digital, automated, and regulated airspace framework for unmanned aircraft.
Frequentis provided its Uncrewed Traffic Management (UTM) suite, enabling secure data exchange for operator registration, flight authorizations, and geo-awareness. A Honeywell Aerospace Ground Control Station (GCS) equipped with a ground-based Detect-and-Avoid (DAA) system processed telemetry from both the drone and an actual crewed aircraft acting as an intruder. This consolidated airspace picture allowed the GCS to identify potential conflicts, alert the operator, and recommend safe route adjustments.
“The successful demonstration underlines the importance of strong industry collaboration,” said Bernhard Kirschner, Solution Architect for Integrated Lower Airspace at Frequentis. “Together with our partners, we’re building the digital infrastructure required for safe and efficient unmanned aviation.”
Once an updated flight plan was approved by the operator, it was uploaded and executed automatically, illustrating how resilient connectivity and automated U-space services work together to ensure safe BVLOS operations.
“The successful demonstration underlines the importance of strong industry collaboration.Together with our partners, we’re building the digital infrastructure required for safe and efficient unmanned aviation.”- Bernhard Kirschner, Solution Architect for Integrated Lower Airspace at Frequentis
