[SatNews] This new terminal rejects harsh sea caused ship motion...

Astrium has launched its nexgen naval terminal – SCOTPatrol – designed to extend SATCOM capabilities to smaller ships such as Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs). With the capability to transmit large volumes of data over Ku-, Ka- and X-bands, SCOTPatrol can act as a beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) relay for video, multispectral and radar imagery, from intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) assets, such as helicopter UAVs. SCOTPatrol is precision manufactured from carbon fibre which gives it a reduced magnetic footprint, exceptional strength to withstand shock, vibration and harsh operating environments, while making it the lightest ever naval satcom terminal of its type. The reduced top-weight, together with a compact footprint above and below decks makes for easier integration on smaller vessels such as OPVs. In addition, through-life performance benefits can be derived from easier logistics and materials handling, and less stress on mechanical components such as motors and bearings.

SCOTPatrol benefits from an advanced 3-axis stabilized platform designed to reject ship motion from harsh sea conditions, so that the antenna always remains accurately pointed at the satellite without the “keyhole effect” of 2-axis systems. Building upon nearly 40 years of SCOT design heritage, SCOTPatrol is the latest example of Astrium’s position as a leading European supplier of high-security satellite communications equipment and networks, with decades of experience in the design, manufacture and test of hardened spacecraft and high-technology secure communications systems. Astrium Services’ Secure Satcom Systems provides a full range of land, air and naval terminals including the renowned family of SCOT terminals that have been procured by 11 navies worldwide and have provided 24/7 connectivity in all weather conditions to over 200 ships worldwide.