Global Link 

Launched in March, 2023, Global Link was developed in-house by Fairwinds Technologies and designed to tackle the challenge of integrating disparate types of equipment.  The product allows the end-user to employ multiple and differing terminals, modems and satellite orbits (LEO, MEO and GEO) to function as one system. Global Link is a multi-modem antenna management system which allows the warfighter to route any modem to any antenna as well as quickly add or change modems and antennas. Further, Global Link enables multiple, simultaneous frequencies and connections over LEO, MEO and GEO satellites. 

The system was designed as an RF Signal Processing System that enables the routing and management of multiple antennas/beams and modems in addition to providing the ability to distribute antennas around a platform and function as a single terminal.  By incorporating distributed panels or parabolic based antenna systems with Global Link, each of the antennas can operate either as simultaneous separate antennas or as one combined antenna.  With communication with satellites the most challenging aspect is reception, as the only way to really increase this capability is through having a larger signal collector. By combining separate, smaller distributed antennas, you can enable a larger collector without a single larger integration footprint.  You enable significant integration flexibility by distributing small antennas around the vehicle and away from the weapons systems.  And from a cost standpoint, four small terminals are much more cost-effective than one large one.

Embedded in Global Link are multiple patents pending that are considered key enabling technology as they enable multiple capabilities.  This system digitizes and provides Mil-Std 188-164C compliant equalization on up to 800 MHz of spectrum on each of the terminals that are connected, and routes and switches between modems and antennas to enable multiple simultaneous satellite communications links.  This system essentially provides any connected satellite waveform on any capable antenna beam or antenna. This digitization of spectrum could also be leveraged in the future by signal intelligence (SIGINT) processing systems that effectively turn any connected antenna or terminals (airborne or ground-based) into instant RF sensors.

Global Link has been successfully tested with a variety of antennas and modems and the company delivered its first sale to the U.S. Army earlier this year.

Learn more about Global Link at www.fairwinds-tech.com/GLink

About Fairwinds Technologies:  
Fairwinds Technologies designs and integrates communications, networking and information technology solutions to serve defense and civilian agencies around the world.  Combining innovative products with specialized services, Fairwinds Technologies strives to meet critical needs, no matter the mission.  Founded in 2016, Fairwinds Technologies is a small business.  For more information, please visit fairwinds-tech.com.