Satellite Communications Testing - SATCOM
Satellite Communications (SATCOM) Air Laboratory
Calspan delivers high-fidelity Satellite Communications Testing (SATCOM) using advanced airborne testbeds designed specifically to validate satellite and data-link performance under real-world flight conditions. From radome-integrated antenna systems to full SATCOM installations, we provide the tools, airframes, and expertise to ensure operational success. Whether you're a defense contractor testing secure communication protocols or a commercial SATCOM provider launching a next-gen broadband system, Calspan enables you to gather meaningful flight data, verify performance, and accelerate certification timelines—all within a controlled, FAA-compliant environment. Our team is also experienced with international flight routes and beam profiles, allowing for end-to-end validation of connectivity across diverse geographies and orbital footprints.
Dedicated SATCOM Testbeds
Our Gulfstream G-III aircraft are purpose-modified for satellite communications testing—featuring upper fuselage antenna provisions, 25 KVA power systems, extended range (3,400 NM), and 7-hour endurance for full-cycle SATCOM evaluation.
Integrated Flight Test Support
We provide end-to-end satellite communications testing services—design, integration, airworthiness, flight ops, and data analysis—all in-house. This ensures rapid deployment and high test fidelity for both commercial and defense applications.
Trusted by Defense Programs
With 75+ years in aerospace testing, Calspan delivers SATCOM validation for high-consequence military systems. Our pilots, engineers, and techs bring top-tier credentials, including USAF and USN test pilot school graduates.
Validate SATCOM Systems
Calspan's Gulfstream G-III airborne testbed is engineered for rigorous SATCOM validation, whether you're introducing a next-generation terminal or deploying software upgrades to legacy systems. With a wide performance envelope, long-endurance capability, and high-altitude operation, the G-III is ideal for complex testing scenarios including multi-beam handoffs, transoceanic link evaluations, and dynamic mission profiles. The aircraft’s modular interior can accommodate up to three independent terminal configurations simultaneously while still supporting a team of five flight test engineers onboard. This ensures you can execute parallel testing paths without compromising space, power, or data integrity.
The aircraft is equipped with several antenna mounting provisions to replicate real-world installation environments. The forward common systems radome supports antennas up to 18 inches or dual 12-inch configurations, optimized for Ka and Ku band testing. For larger or low-profile installations, the mid-dorsal antenna mount mirrors the SATCOM setups found on widebody commercial airframes, providing an ideal test platform for systems intended for airline or military transport aircraft. Whether validating connectivity in contested environments or ensuring continuity across global networks, Calspan's G-III testbed offers the flexibility and technical depth required to accelerate development with confidence.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Useful load of 5,600 lbs. for aircrew, test equipment and airborne systems | The upper fuselage antenna installations are certified to carry external equipment weighing up to 450lbs |
| Large performance envelope with long range and endurance (3,400 NM, 7 hours) | The typical flight envelope for flight tests allows up to 45,000 ft. altitude at speeds approaching Mach 0.8 |
|
Main cabin is equipped with full length seat rails to accommodate up to eight full Flight Test Engineer (FTE) work stations, each including a 19 inch equipment rack, seat, electrical power and aircraft state data provisions
|
Ample room for a team of up to 8 flight engineers to analyze data, validate performance requirements and make adjustments. The space is configured to allow for easy transition from ground to flight. |
| Common Systems Radome on upper fuselage for SATCOM antenna testing | Accommodates up to an 18” parabolic and steerable antenna, or multiple 12” antennas; Supports both Ka and Ku-Band testing |
| Mid-dorsal radome installation | Accommodates multiple size flat and array style antenna systems; Supports installations designed for large commercial aircraft |
|
ARINC 429 data available in main cabin
|
Data can be provided real time or post flight test; sensors can be custom installed for additional monitoring as required |
|
Electrical power distribution
|
The aircraft has approximately 23kVA of mission equipment power available to support antenna and cabin equipment |
Calspan’s SATCOM Testing Capabilities
As a recognized authority in satellite communications testing, Calspan operates multiple airborne testbeds designed for real-world SATCOM system evaluation. Our Gulfstream G-III is a leading platform for both commercial and military SATCOM testing:
- Location: Worldwide deployment to test international and overseas beam radiation patterns
- Flight endurance: 7 hours
- Range: 3,400 nautical miles
- Payloads: 3,000 lb centerline pylon
- Antennas: Upper fuselage SATCOM antenna mounts
- Power: 25 KVA universal system (60 Hz / 400 Hz AC, 28 VDC, custom options)
- Cooling: External 120 KW capability
- Data Integration: ARINC 429 aircraft state tap
In-House Support
- FAA Part 145 Repair Station
- Experimental Airworthiness Certifications
- Engineering specialties: Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, Software, Systems
- Modular cabin design for rapid roll-on/roll-off configuration
- On-site labs: avionics, system integration, hydraulics, electronics, sheet metal, machining
Why Calspan for SATCOM Testing
- True flying laboratory with full autonomy and system simulation capabilities
- Secure & scalable: Trusted by defense primes and military programs
- Flight operations from KIAG (Niagara Falls, NY) with access to clean MOAs
- Presence at Edwards AFB and NAS Patuxent River
Find out how we can
support your innovations
