Harris Completes Testing of US Navy Satellite Terminal

Harris Corporation has completed system qualification testing of a satellite terminal that will provide US Navy ships with access to the internet, video and other broadband services.

The satellite terminal will provide ten times the bandwidth currently available onboard ships including frigates, cruisers and destroyers.

The testing marks the initial production phase of the commercial broadband satellite programme unit-level variant (ULV) contract, under which Harris will supply up to 55 advanced, 1.3m satellite communications terminals with X and Ku-band capabilities.

The terminals will support essential mission requirements and provide high-speed internet access and video communications.

Harris Defense Programs president Wes Covell said that it represents a new navy SATCOM capability that will provide the most advanced communications services available to deployed personnel.

"Completion of qualification testing is a key milestone for this programme, as these terminals will significantly enhance the navy's ability to provide high-data-rate satellite communications to shipboard personnel throughout the world," he said.

Harris was awarded the five-year, $77m contract in 2008.