L3Harris Technologies Demonstrates Antenna Technology for US Space Force Satellite Communications

Rhea-AI Summary

L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX) has successfully completed a technology demonstration for the U.S. Space Force, showcasing a Multi-Band Multi-Mission (MBMM) phased array ground antenna system.

This innovative system enables 16 simultaneous satellite contacts, significantly enhancing communication capabilities while lowering infrastructure costs. The demonstration confirmed live contacts across multiple orbital regimes at Schriever Air Force Base, reflecting L3Harris's commitment to meeting the growing satellite mission demands.

Positive

• Successful demonstration of MBMM system with 16 simultaneous satellite contacts.
• Capability to scale up to hundreds of concurrent satellite connections.
• Reduced physical footprint and lower infrastructure costs per satellite contact.
• Reinvigorated interest in MBMM program as key for space architecture.

Negative

• None.

L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX) has successfully completed a technology demonstration, under a Defense Innovation Unit prototype contract, for the U.S. Space Force satellite communication system to improve communications with the agency’s growing number of satellites.

L3Harris developed a Multi-Band Multi-Mission (MBMM) phased array ground antenna system and integrated it with the Space Force’s Satellite Communication Network system in order to demonstrate multiple simultaneous satellite contacts. (Graphic: Business Wire)

L3Harris developed a Multi-Band Multi-Mission (MBMM) phased array ground antenna system and integrated it with the Space Force’s Satellite Communication Network system in order to demonstrate multiple simultaneous satellite contacts. Traditional parabolic or radio antennas can contact only one satellite at a time.

The MBMM system’s all-digital architecture established 16 simultaneous contacts during the demonstration. The system can scale up to support hundreds of concurrent satellite connections from a single phased array antenna system, reducing the physical footprint needed for ground antennas and lowering the infrastructure cost per satellite contact.

“L3Harris developed an all-digital phased array antenna technology to meet the enormous ground system capacity demands created by the increasing number of satellite missions,” said Ed Zoiss, President, Space and Airborne Systems, L3Harris. “This successful demonstration from L3Harris readies our nation with a capable and affordable advanced satellite communications approach today for the further proliferation of satellites in the near future."

The L3Harris demonstration successfully confirmed live contacts with Space Force satellites across multiple orbital regimes at Schriever Air Force Base in Colorado.

“The MBMM demonstrations were a complete success that showcased the advancements in phased array technology and relevance for satellite command and control with live DOD systems. It has reinvigorated interest in the MBMM program as a key part of the overall space architecture,” said Col. Wallace “Rhett” Turnbull III, Director, Cross Mission Ground and Communications Enterprise, Space and Missile Systems Center. “Capabilities like those recently demonstrated may play an important role in meeting the growing demand for satellite control capacity by providing more affordable and resilient access to Space Force satellite systems.”

L3Harris performed the successful demonstration with support from Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. and Mercury Systems.

About L3Harris Technologies

L3Harris Technologies is an agile global aerospace and defense technology innovator, delivering end-to-end solutions that meet customers’ mission-critical needs. The company provides advanced defense and commercial technologies across air, land, sea, space and cyber domains. L3Harris has approximately $18 billion in annual revenue and 48,000 employees, with customers in more than 100 countries. L3Harris.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect management's current expectations, assumptions and estimates of future performance and economic conditions. Such statements are made in reliance upon the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results and future trends to differ materially from those matters expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements about system capabilities are forward-looking and involve risks and uncertainties. L3Harris disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210112005106/en/

FAQ

What is the significance of L3Harris's technology demonstration for LHX?

L3Harris's demonstration showcases their advanced Multi-Band Multi-Mission antenna system, which improves satellite communication for the U.S. Space Force.

How many simultaneous satellite contacts can the MBMM system support?

The MBMM system established 16 simultaneous contacts during the demonstration and can scale to support hundreds.

Where was the L3Harris technology demonstration conducted?

The successful demonstration was conducted at Schriever Air Force Base in Colorado.

What are the future implications of L3Harris's demonstration for LHX shareholders?

The successful demonstration may enhance L3Harris’s position in satellite communications, potentially leading to increased demand and revenue from government contracts.

Who supported the L3Harris technology demonstration?

The demonstration was supported by Kratos Defense & Security Solutions and Mercury Systems.