UAVionix

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uAvionix Releases muLTElink Upgrade, Enabling Seamless Autonomous C2 Link Management and Payload Comms for UAS Operations

Major software update to muLTElink products enables advanced link management for assured Command, Control (C2) and payload for UAS operations.

uAvionix, a leader in low-SWaP aviation-grade communications and surveillance technologies for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), today announced a significant software update to its muLTElink product family, enabling advanced link management for assured Command and Control (C2) and payload during UAS operations. 

muLTElink, which integrates up to four independent radios (C-Band, LTE, ISM, and optional IP based radios such as SATCOM or Starlink), includes advanced Dynamic Link Selection and Active Link Monitoring features. These improvements allow seamless, automated make-before-break switching across multiple C2 links—without operator intervention. The upgrade enables dedicated radios for Command Non-Payload Communications (CNPC) to be optimized for path and frequency diversity, minimizing the risk of lost connectivity in complex terrain or dynamic RF environments, while allowing an additional link for transmittal of payload data. 

“This release delivers meaningful improvements in operational resilience and cost-efficiency that our customers have asked for,” said Cyriel Kronenburg, VP of UAS and Aviation Networks at uAvionix. “Our customers face unpredictable terrain, RF interference, and increasing complexity while trying to control the aircraft and complete the mission. muLTElink’s enhanced automation means the UAS selects the best available link in real-time for C2 and keeps payload data streaming—so operators can focus on the mission, not the network, all through a single device.” 

New Capabilities and Highlights 

  • Real-Time Dynamic Link Selection – Automatically chooses the optimal link (LTE, C-Band, ISM, or an IP based radio such as SATCOM) based on real-time signal quality, interference, and geographic conditions.
  • Active Link Monitoring – Continuously monitors all available links and autonomously switches before failure occurs—virtually eliminating link loss.
  • Improved Network Resilience – Provides true frequency and path diversity. Adversarial interference or coverage gaps in one band are bypassed using alternative paths.
  • Lower Operational Costs – Intelligent link arbitration reduces unnecessary reliance on high-cost SATCOM by using LTE or ISM when viable.
  • Field-Proven Reliability – Under FAA contract testing, muLTElink achieved 99.97% link availability across a 360-mile flight path, with less than 5 seconds of total downtime over 4.3 hours. 

Deployment Scenarios

The upgraded muLTElink is optimized for high-risk and complex UAS operations such as: 

  • Long-range linear inspections (pipeline, powerline, rail)
  • Emergency response and public safety (DFR, overwatch)
  • Urban air mobility (UAM) trials and infrastructure surveys
  • FAA test site research and certification initiatives 

Current muLTElink configurations include the muLTElink5060, which combines LTE and C-Band in a compact 100g, 2W package, and the muLTElink915, offering LTE and ISM radios at 65g. Both support external SATCOM integration and are managed via uAvionix’s SkyLine C2 Manager, a web-based platform for link arbitration and C2 application integration. Either muLTELink can be combined with a skyLink915 or skyLink5060 for up to four communications links.

Trusted by Industry Leaders

muLTElink and skyLine is already at several ranges in partnership with NASA, Choctaw Nation, OAIRE, skyWay Range, Thales, and Vantis, and is active at multiple FAA-designated UAS test sites. 

21 May 2025

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Airspace Link Launches the Operations Center in AirHub® Portal to Deliver Complete Situational Awareness for Drone Operations

Airspace Link announces the official launch of the Operations Center in its flagship product AirHub® Portal. At the core of the Operations Center is its open platform architecture, which integrates with a range of airspace awareness data sources, including crewed aircraft ADS-B detection systems from industry leader uAvionix.

Airspace Link, a leading FAA-approved UAS (Drone) Service Supplier of B4UFLY and LAANC, today announced the official launch of the Operations Center in its flagship product AirHub® Portal. Designed to give organizations real-time operational oversight, the Operations Center enables strategic insight, situational awareness, and live tracking of drone and crewed aircraft activity — all in one powerful system.

“The Operations Center transforms AirHub® Portal into a true command center for organizations managing drone operations at scale,” said Tyler Dicks, Head of Product at Airspace Link. “From public safety teams and federal agencies to state and local governments and commercial enterprises, we’re helping a wide range of users gain the operational clarity they need to deliver safer, smarter, and more coordinated drone operations.”

With the new Operate tab activated in AirHub® Portal, users can visualize:

  • Active and planned drone operations for the day
  • Live crewed aircraft traffic and uncrewed drone activity, with supporting sensor partner integration
  • Current weather conditions across mission areas
  • B4UFLY airspace briefings
  • [Coming Soon] Real-time telemetry from user organizations’ own connected drone flights

Airspace Link’s new Operations Center in AirHub® Portal delivers a single-pane-of-glass solution for organizations that require coordinated, real-time airspace oversight. Built for flight operations managers, public safety agencies, airfield managers, and state and local authorities, the Operations Center offers a unified, interactive map display that provides a complete common operational picture of all active and planned missions, ensuring safer, more informed, and more efficient decision-making.

Also designed to meet the needs of IT leaders and security professionals, the Operations Center includes robust post-mission analytics, audit trails, and automatic reporting to support regulatory compliance, internal governance, and continuous operational improvement. Critically, Airspace Link safeguards its technology with enterprise-grade security and privacy protocols, backed by SOC 2 and ISO 27001 certifications — ensuring sensitive operational data is protected by industry-leading standards and rigorous best practices.

At the core of the Operations Center is its open platform architecture, which integrates with a range of airspace awareness data sources, including crewed aircraft ADS-B detection systems from industry leader uAvionix.

“We’re proud to partner with Airspace Link in delivering high integrity live aircraft traffic data for the Operations Center,” said Cyriel Kronenburg, Vice President for UAS and Aviation Networks from uAvionix, Airspace Link’s trusted sensor partner. “This integration ensures organizations have access to a high quality and accurate view of their surrounding airspace on a single pane of glass — a critical component for safe and effective drone operations.”

Now available for AirHub® Portal organization accounts, the Operations Center joins Airspace Link’s full suite of capabilities – from preflight planning and LAANC authorization to internal operation approvals, crew and asset management, and flight logging. Together, these tools form a comprehensive Drone Operations Management System (DOMS) purpose-built for the needs of modern, connected drone programs.

“Whether you’re overseeing a city-wide drone program or scaling enterprise operations, the Operations Center delivers the situational awareness and accountability today’s teams demand,” Dicks added. “It’s about empowering diverse stakeholders with the tools to operate smarter, safer, and with total confidence.”

As both an FAA-approved UAS Service Supplier of LAANC and B4UFLY, and a provider of advanced drone operations software, Airspace Link offers one of the only fully integrated Drone Operations Management Systems in the market, eliminating the need to manage multiple systems or vendors.

See It Live at XPONENTIAL 2025

Airspace Link will be exhibiting at XPONENTIAL 2025 in Houston. Visit us at Booth #4320 for a live demonstration of the Operations Center and to explore how AirHub® Portal can elevate your organization’s drone operations.

15 May 2025

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uAvionix Launches skyAlert: Wearable Aircraft Alerting Device for UAS Operators and Visual Observers

Innovative portable solution – skyAlert – audibly alerts UAS operators and visual observers to nearby ADS-B equipped aircraft, enhancing safety and operational awareness.

uAvionix, committed to radically innovating to keep the skies safe for all airspace users, yesterday announced the release of skyAlert, a portable, wearable ADS-B receiver specifically designed for professional Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) operators and their supporting visual observers. By audibly alerting users whenever an ADS-B equipped aircraft enters a user-configurable proximity zone, skyAlert significantly increases situational awareness and safety, allowing operators to maintain uninterrupted visual contact with their drones.

“skyAlert exemplifies uAvionix’s unwavering dedication to innovation in aviation safety,” said Christian Ramsey, Chief Commercial Officer at uAvionix. “By providing immediate audible warnings of nearby ADS-B equipped aircraft, SkyAlert empowers UAS operators and visual observers to remain focused and proactive in maintaining flight safety and compliance.”

Enhancing Operational Safety

Geared toward professional UAS operators in the field, skyAlert addresses the critical need to remain heads-up and alert during flight operations, especially when hand flying near structures and powerlines. The device’s configurable audible alerts immediately inform users of potential intruder conflicts such as low flying helicopters without requiring visual distractions, enhancing both safety and regulatory compliance while keeping eyes on the drone.

skyAlert

Configurable Alert Zone

A key feature of skyAlert is its configurable alert zone, which allows users to set customized altitude and range parameters. Operators can define the distance and vertical separation at which they wish to be alerted, ensuring timely notification tailored specifically to their operational environment and safety needs, allowing the UAS operator to take timely evasive action. This flexibility empowers operators to proactively manage potential airspace conflicts before they become critical during utility inspections, or agricultural and civil engineering operations at low altitude.

Optional EFB Connectivity

For enhanced situational awareness, skyAlert offers integrated connectivity to most common Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) applications, allowing users or their visual observer to electronically monitor nearby aircraft traffic on a mobile device. This capability uses the industry-standard GDL-90 protocol, providing real-time aircraft position data directly to the operator’s preferred EFB software in addition to providing audible alerts directly to the RPIC. skyAlert is compatible with ForeFlight Mobile, SkyDemon, EasyVFR, FlyQ, Stratus Insight, WingX, AirMate, OzRunways, AvPlan, SkyMap, and others.

Key Features of skyAlert

  • Rugged, wearable, portable ADS-B receiver designed specifically for field operations
  • Customizable alert parameters for both range and altitude
  • Loud audible alerts for immediate aircraft proximity notification in the field
  • Dual-band ADS-B reception (1090MHz and 978MHz) for commercial, GA and helicopter traffic
  • Compatibility with Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) applications via the GDL-90 protocol
  • 12-hour battery life with convenient USB-C recharging
  • Self-contained device, can be used in the field without cellular connections or internet
  • Compact (57x82x30mm) and lightweight (200 grams) design
  • RAM™ belt or shoulder clip-on mount included for hands-free portability

Diverse Applications and Usage Scenarios

SkyAlert is ideally suited for a variety of operational contexts:

  • Shielded drone operations near utility lines, bridge inspections, construction and roof inspections with possible helicopter and GA aircraft encounters, providing a safety net to avoid accidental encounters for UAS pilots who need to focus on their drone or payload during mission-critical commercial drone operations
  • Uncrewed Aerial Applicator Systems (UAAS) used in agricultural spraying operations, particularly when operating near manned crop-dusting aircraft
  • Drone as a First Responder (DFR) / Emergency Response operators and wildfire fighting operations with mixed crewed and uncrewed aircraft involved in the mission

Availability

SkyAlert will be available for pre-order immediately and will begin shipping in July 2025. For further details, demonstrations, or purchasing information, visit uAvionix at AUVSI Xponential in Houston, booth #3033 or contact uAvionix directly.

uAvionix

About uAvionix

uAvionix is dedicated to advancing aviation safety and efficiency through groundbreaking ADS-B and electronic conspicuity solutions. Recognized globally, uAvionix technologies are trusted by pilots, UAS operators, and aviation authorities worldwide to maintain safe and efficient airspace.

Contact Information

Cyriel Kronenburg
VP of UAS and Aviation Networks
Email: [email protected]

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Enhancing Drone as First Responder Programs with uAvionix’s Casia G Nighttime Capability

In recent years, the use of drones in emergency response has revolutionized the way first responders handle critical situations. Among the cutting-edge technologies enabling this transformation is uAvionix’s Casia G. As a key component of Drone as a First Responder (DFR) programs, Casia G detects aircraft flying around drone operations, allowing potential collisions to be avoided. To support the growth of these public safety programs, uAvionix is excited to announce a significant development: the Casia G will soon support nighttime operations, broadening its utility and effectiveness for emergency services.

The applications of Casia G are diverse, including supporting inspections of construction sites and critical infrastructure, as well as monitoring rail yards and solar farms. However, its most impactful use is in DFR programs. When an emergency call is made, having a drone on the scene first provides invaluable situational awareness to police, fire, and emergency services, ensuring a more efficient and safer response.

Casia G is foundational to the enablement of DFR programs, facilitating rapid deployment of drones to emergency scenes. The system alerts operators to nearby aircraft and allows them to safely operate drones beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) without the need for human visual observers. This means that drone pilots can rapidly launch and control the aircraft from remote locations prior to responders arriving on the scene with full approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

“Casia G has become a critical piece of infrastructure, enabling organizations to fly BVLOS without human visual observers,” explains Jason Hardy-Smith, VP of Product at uAvionix. “This allows DFR drone pilots to be remote from the UAS during flight and expedites the time from when an emergency call comes in to when a drone is on-site and providing better situational awareness to emergency responders.”

Currently, Casia G operates effectively from half an hour after sunrise to half an hour before sunset. However, recognizing that many emergencies occur at night, uAvionix has prioritized the development of nighttime capability. Drew Swift of the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office elaborates, “Crime doesn’t stop when it gets dark. In fact, a very high percentage of serious crime occurs after the sun sets. UAS are a critical tool in our arsenal to react in an efficient and timely manner to 911 calls, providing us the situational awareness to protect both the public and officers. As such, having DAA [Detect and Avoid] capabilities 24/7 is absolutely necessary.”

The upcoming nighttime functionality, slated for release in October 2024, is an exciting advancement. The existing hardware and cameras will be used, leveraging built-in GPS to determine the precise time of dusk at each location. As darkness falls, Casia G will automatically switch to night mode, adjusting camera settings and utilizing a new algorithm designed to detect navigation and anti-collision lights on an aircraft.

As seen in the following video, the algorithm has demonstrated impressive capabilities, with initial performance reports indicating that the detection range at night will be equal to or even surpass that of daytime operations. “All in all, it’s a really exciting development. We found that we’re able to use the same hardware and cameras as our daytime solution,” Hardy-Smith notes. “With just a software update, we’ll be able to bring nighttime detection of aircraft to Casia G customers, and we’ll be delivering it this October.”

The introduction of nighttime operations for Casia G will significantly enhance the effectiveness of DFR programs, ensuring that drones can provide critical situational awareness regardless of the time of day. This development underscores uAvionix’s commitment to advancing drone technology to meet the evolving needs of emergency services, making communities safer and response times faster.

As we approach the launch of this groundbreaking feature, uAvionix continues to lead the way in integrating innovative solutions into public safety operations. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to October 2024, and witness firsthand how Casia G is transforming DFR programs across the nation.

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uAvionix Achieves FAA TSO Certification for ping200XR Combined Transponder and GPS Receiver, Expanding Airspace Access for UAS

uAvionix, a leader in avionics technology for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), today announced that the ping200XR Mode S ADS-B transponder with integral aviation GPS, has received Technical Standard Order (TSO) certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This milestone is the latest major TSO certification for uAvionix and offers the lowest certified Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) solution for worldwide airspace compliance.

The ping200XR TSO has received TSO-C112e and TSO-C166b for transponder and ADS-B functionality, TSO-C88b for its internal pressure altimeter, and TSO-C145e for the integral aviation GPS. Weighing only 52 grams and measuring 47 x 72 x 10mm, the ping200XR offers everything required for airspace access or for certified aircraft in a single enclosure. The ping200XR TSO ensures the aircraft can be detected by Secondary Surveillance Radar (SSR), Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS), and ADS-B IN receivers, facilitating seamless integration into national and international airspace. 

“Receiving TSO certification for the ping200XR represents a significant achievement for uAvionix and underscores our commitment to advancing UAS technology in a way that prioritizes safety and compliance,” said Christian Ramsey, Chief Commercial Officer for uAvionix. “This approval from the FAA is a testament to the reliability and safety our products bring to the skies, enabling broader access and acceptance by regulators and Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) worldwide.”

In its uncertified format, the ping200XR has been particularly popular with high altitude aircraft and balloons which must operate in Class A and above airspace. These certifications open the ping200XR TSO to markets which require certifications such as Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. Additionally, the ping200XR TSO is particularly advantageous for aircraft seeking type certification such as future eVTOL/AAM platforms.

ping200XR TSO will begin shipping in September 2024.

Since its inception in 2015, uAvionix has been at the forefront of avionics for crewed and uncrewed aircraft, developing a suite of products that address the unique challenges of integrating uncrewed systems into the global airspace infrastructure. Each TSO-certified product from uAvionix not only paves the way for safer skies but also supports the expanding utility of UAS across commercial, government, and recreational sectors.

12 August 2024

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uAvionix: Pushing the envelope – testing the future of multiple link SATCOM solutions with StarLink

In February 2023, uAvionix began testing the first versions of Starlink’s antennas and connectivity, exploring the possibilities for advanced LEO-satellite-based command and control (C2) communications for small UAS. The Starlink results were encouraging, and we have continued our efforts throughout this past year.

As a leading provider of Command, Navigation, and Surveillance technologies for small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS), we have consistently promoted multi-modal connectivity solutions to support both assured C2 and high-bandwidth payload communications. By integrating various connectivity methods, we provide path and frequency diversity, ensuring reliable operation everywhere.

Today, uAvionix is pleased to highlight a significant step forward in their integration efforts with the successful completion of test flights using Starlink and uAvionix’s muLTElink airborne radio. The integration work continues their commitment to offering the best possible connectivity solutions for small UAS, and the recent flight tests demonstrated unprecedented connectivity for both C2 and payload communications, delivering data rates in the megabits per second with latencies below 100 milliseconds.

This milestone is an extension of our integration with L-band satellite connectivity solutions that have been implemented across various platforms to ensure assured C2 communications. By introducing Starlink to our connectivity suite, we will enhance our capability to provide both assured C2 and high-bandwidth payload communications, such as streaming video or ISR data, back to the operator. This integration further underscores our dedication to multi-modal solutions that combine path and frequency diversity, a principle we have long championed.

The achievement highlights the potential of Starlink to revolutionize UAS C2 communications and payload backhaul solutions, promising a new era of connectivity for uncrewed aerial systems.

Stay tuned for more updates as we delve into the technical details and comparative performance of the varying connectivity options for sUAS communications. This forthcoming analysis will offer deeper insights into the relative strengths and weaknesses of each connectivity type.

7 August 2024

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uAvionix FlightLine Surveillance Services Demonstrated Within Volant Autonomy’s Integrated Traffic Management

uAvionix, a leader in aviation surveillance solutions, announces the integration of its FlightLine surveillance services with Volant Autonomy’s advanced ITM (Integrated Traffic Management) system for ALIAS (Agile and Integrated Airspace System), a leading-edge UK Government $5M Future Flight Phase III project. The collaboration, showcased in the Channel Islands, is an important step forward in advancing the integration of unsegregated crewed and uncrewed operations into the UK airspace system and supporting Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations for Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). This exciting development highlights the capabilities of UAS for numerous airborne applications, particularly as the UK’s CAA begins to adopt SORA (Specific Operation Risk Assessment) as the roadmap to scalable BVLOS operations.

Following the successful completion of Project ALIAS in June 2024, Volant Autonomy has seen a surge in interest for their BVLOS enabling technology. uAvionix’s FlightLine system proved to be an invaluable asset in supporting the consortium’s demonstration flights. Anthony Lawrenson, COO of Volant Autonomy, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating:

“As the ALIAS Project Lead, I was very impressed with the support provided by uAvionix and the quality of their FlightLine system. I am confident this initial collaboration will lead to much greater opportunities in the near future. We picked up some great data while testing our Flyte Autonomy and DAA (Detect & Avoid) systems including high quality data from the FlightLine system that supported safe and coordinated operations of crewed and uncrewed aircraft.”

The integration of uAvionix FlightLine API into Volant’s system was quick and seamless; it delivered timely and reliable Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) positional data which formed an important part of the ALIAS Traffic Information Service (TIS). The provision of acquiring and utilizing high assurance positional data in collaboration with primary and secondary radar feeds from Ports of Jersey ATC (Air Traffic Control) is a key enabler for Volant’s DAA solution, which adheres to the RTCA’s ACAS sXu (Aircraft Collision Avoidance System) standards.

As well as providing safe and dynamic separation of Draken’s Diamond DA-42 with UAVs operated by SkyLift and SkyPorts, the latest ALIAS trials, saw SkyLift uncrewed aircraft operating in and out of Jersey Airport, in the Channel Islands, showcasing the realistic potential for the provision of multiple airborne services safely operating within a live ATC environment.

David Cleaver, CEO of Volant Autonomy, stated, “The use of the uAvionix FlightLine surveillance service aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver state-of-the-art ITM solutions to the global aerospace industry. Our combined expertise and technology, particularly in the development of certifiable DAA solutions, provide a robust framework for the future of BVLOS operations.” 

Paul Beard, founder and CTO of uAvionix, added, “The integration of high assurance data and the use of aviation-grade certifiable systems are crucial to enabling scalable BVLOS operations in Europe and the US. The ALIAS project has provided an excellent platform to demonstrate these capabilities, showcasing how such advancements can significantly enhance the safety and reliability of integrated airspace systems.

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About uAvionix: 
uAvionix Corporation develops innovative aviation surveillance solutions to enhance airspace safety. Their products, including ADS-B transponders and receivers, are designed to meet the needs of both crewed and uncrewed aircraft.
For more information about uAvionix and its aviation safety solutions, please visit https://uavionix.com/. 
Follow uAvionix on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube
Contact for media: [email protected]
 
About Volant Autonomy: 
Volant Autonomy specializes in autonomous aviation technology, offering high assurance solutions for BVLOS operations. Their SORA aligned auto-planning systems, DAA, and advanced autonomous flight-guidance solutions are designed to improve safety and efficiency in the evolving landscape of ITM.

Volant Autonomy and uAvionix are ARPAS-UK members.

22 July 2024

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uAvionix Awarded FAA Contract to Advance BVLOS Operations

uAvionix, a leader in avionics solutions for uncrewed and crewed aircraft, announced today that it has been awarded a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) contract to advance the commercial use of Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the National Airspace System (NAS). The contract aims to develop highly reliable Command and Control (C2) communications for extended Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations across challenging terrains. Partnering with the University of Alaska Fairbanks UAS Test Site, uAvionix will employ its Link Executive Manager (LEM) to fuse LTE, Iridium SATCOM, and C-Band communications links to deliver uninterrupted and reliable C2 during long-range BVLOS flights along an Alaskan pipeline.

Reliance on a single link or common infrastructure isn’t always feasible in remote and mountainous terrain. Having multiple, seamless connections to the aircraft from airborne and ground-based communications provides the safety and flexibility needed to reliably perform these complex operations. Flying for extended ranges with many transitions between communications paths and frequencies will provide the data needed to support FAA rule making and reinforce the concept that using UAS technology can be used safely and economically across all types of terrain and infrastructure.

Cyriel Kronenburg of uAvionix

The current practice for BVLOS flights in the National Airspace involves obtaining FAA waivers or exemptions, which often rely on a single active C2 link with a single alternate standby link. Challenging terrain conditions, such as those found in Alaska, can significantly impact the availability of both the primary and alternate links resulting in difficulties satisfying the risk analysis for the BVLOS approval, or worse a lost link condition and failure of the UAS mission. uAvionix, in collaboration with the FAA, will work on a system that integrates cellular networks, Iridium SATCOM, and aviation protected C-Band into an assured C2 communications system consisting of multiple concurrent links using both frequency and path diversity to minimize the risk of lost links over adverse topography.

This innovative system will be controlled by a Link Executive Manager (LEM) through the SkyLine cloud-based platform, ensuring seamless and automatic switching between radios to maintain optimal and uninterrupted communication irrespective of ground conditions. Test flights will take place at the Alaska UAS test site, where achieving path and link diversity is challenging due to limited cellular coverage, high tower installation costs and mountains that block radio frequency signals.

We have a consistent track record of collaboration and success with the FAA. This contract builds upon that success and demonstrates our commitment to advancing BVLOS operations for the industry. By developing Command and Control Communications Service Provider (C2CSP) infrastructure, we are advancing the commercial viability of UAS operations while maintaining safety and efficiency for UAS operators.

Christian Ramsey, Managing Director for Uncrewed Aviation at uAvionix

The initiative represents a significant step towards making BVLOS operations a more regular part of the UAS industry and follows swiftly on the heels of uAvionix receiving an FAA Exemption to fly BVLOS on the Vantis network that utilizes the uAvionix C2CSP infrastructure to connect other technologies for mission control and detect and avoid.

27 March 2024

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A New Era for Aviation Safety and Efficiency: uAvionix Acquires Iris Automation

uAvionix, a leader in communications, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) solutions for the safe integration of Crewed and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), has announced its acquisition of Iris Automation™, provider of optical Detect and Avoid (DAA) technology. This strategic move combines uAvionix’s extensive CNS and aviation expertise with Iris’ leadership in computer vision-based systems for the safe separation of aircraft. The acquisition not only bolsters uAvionix’s capabilities and services but also marks an important leadership change as Jon Damush, former CEO of Iris Automation, takes the helm as CEO of uAvionix Corporation.

“The combination of Iris Automation’s and uAvionix’s capabilities provides for a multi-layered-safety architecture that supports integration of UAS into the National Airspace System,” noted Paul Beard, CTO and founder of uAvionix. “Through our collective efforts, we are solving the two biggest technical challenges to UAS integration: Command and Control and Detect and Avoid.  Solving these problems builds safer airspace for all users.”

A Safe and Efficient Integrated Airspace

uAvionix’s deep experience with avionics development and certification in crewed, uncrewed, and defense technologies have long provided innovative and cost-effective products and services that create cooperative communication and awareness for all airspace users, from the stratosphere to the airport surface.  Iris Automation’s pioneering airborne and ground-based optical systems deliver non-cooperative situational awareness for the integration of crewed and uncrewed aircraft. Together, the combined capabilities position uAvionix to provide aviators with the certified avionics, aviation data, and safety solutions necessary for a fully integrated airspace.

Jon Damush Assumes Role of CEO of uAvionix Corporation 

As CEO, Jon Damush expands the current uAvionix leadership team and brings more than 30 years of aviation technology experience. His extensive background in engineering for crewed and uncrewed aviation, software development, and systems integration positions him as a visionary leader to guide uAvionix’s growth across diverse markets, including General Aviation, Uncrewed Aviation, Defense, and Aviation Networks.

“Jon Damush’s appointment as CEO hits all the right marks for uAvionix. His exceptional background and vision complement an already strong leadership team at uAvionix and aligns perfectly with the uAvionix mission to lead the way in advancing aviation safety and efficiency,” said David Page, Partner at DC Capital Partners. “The addition of Iris’ optical capabilities with existing uAvionix solutions further cements our market position within BVLOS operations.”

The acquisition of Iris Automation, coupled with Jon Damush’s leadership, fortifies uAvionix’s position as an industry leader for the safe and efficient integration of UAS into the National Airspace. By innovatively combining its aviation expertise with Iris’ advanced technology systems, the company is ushering in a new era for safety and efficiency for everything that flies.

About uAvionix

uAvionix was founded with the mission of bringing safety solutions to aviation that accelerate the integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) into National Airspace Systems (NAS). uAvionix offers innovative, low SWaP TSO certified and uncertified avionics and services for General Aviation (GA), Defense and UAS markets. The team consists of an unparalleled engineering and management team with a unique combination of experience within avionics, surveillance, airport services, UAS aircraft development, radio frequency (RF), and semiconductor industries. 

To learn more about uAvionix crewed and uncrewed products and services, please visit: www.uavionix.com

Follow uAvionix on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

uAvionix Media Contact: [email protected]

About Iris Automation 

Iris Automation is a safety avionics technology company pioneering on- and off-board perception systems and aviation policy services that enable customers to build scalable operations for crewed and uncrewed aircraft; unlocking the potential of countless industries. Iris’ Casia system runs either onboard the aircraft or in a ground-based configuration. We work closely with civil aviation authorities globally as they implement regulatory frameworks ensuring BVLOS is conducted safely, partnering on multiple FAA ASSURE and BEYOND UAV Integration Programs and Transport Canada’s BVLOS Technology Demonstration Program. Visit www.irisonboard.com.

uAvionix is an ARPAS-UK Member.

24 October 2023

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uAvionix and the Choctaw Nation Commence First-Ever FCC-Authorized Operational C-Band BVLOS Operations

uAvionix, a leading provider of command, navigation, and surveillance technologies for crewed and uncrewed aircraft, announced today that it has received FCC (Federal Communications Commission) approval, coordinated with the FAA, to operate its SkyLink C-Band Command and Control (C2) radios for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Emerging Technology test site. 

The radios operating on aviation-protected C-band frequencies will be controlled by uAvionix’s SkyLine cloud-based C2 network solution that combines fleet management, network health monitoring, detect & avoid, and seamless make-before-break roaming between multiple radio networks and ground stations.   With the approval and previous uAvionix BVLOS Waiver, businesses seeking to use aviation-protected C-band and other radio networks, such as LTE, for assured Control and Non-Payload Communications (CNPC) can successfully develop, test and implement solutions for scalable business initiatives such as package delivery and medical resupply.

Ryan Reed, General Manager, uAvionix said

“In a short period of time – measured in months – uAvionix has achieved multiple BVLOS waivers and FCC approval for operation of C-band radios for critical command and control function. Our continued success is a testament to the strength of our efforts with the Choctaw Nation and speaks volumes about our aviation-grade products and services. The SkyLine cloud-based network control and associated SkyLink and SkyStation radios are the first certifiable C2 network purpose built for BVLOS operations.”

uAvionix first obtained FAA approval to test its C-band C2 radios for compliance with RTCA DO-362A and an eventual TSO-C213a in Bigfork, Montana, and then at the Northern Plains UAS Test Site (NPUASTS) in August 2021. C2 radio design assurance is critical to meeting the criteria needed to manage risk during BVLOS operations and to meet the safety case requirements. The successful FCC approval for use of the SkyLink C-band radios at the Choctaw Nation significantly advances riskier BVLOS operations by enabling essential C2 infrastructure to operate on aviation-protected spectrum along-side other frequencies such as LTE and Satcom to deliver reliable command and control capabilities. Utilizing the protected spectrum guards against interference or tampering and enables a consistent, assured connection to the aircraft that meets safety requirements.

The SkyLink Airborne Radios, SkyStation Ground Radios and SkyLine cloud-based link management system are deployed at the Choctaw Nation’s 44,500+ acre Emerging Aviation Technology Center. Four (4) independent C-band radios are networked together through SkyLine. The system continually monitors each link to optimally determine the best link for reliable command and control and ensure make-before-break connections when switching between each available ground station.  Additionally, Detect and Avoid (DAA) data from terrestrial sensors is delivered through the C-band radios.

James Grimsley, Executive Director of Advanced Technology Initiatives with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma:

“uAvionix is a phenomenal commercial partner in our Choctaw Nation emerging aviation activities, and we are always impressed by their pace of innovation. This latest FCC approval is a critical step for the industry as we move toward ubiquitous BVLOS operations, and will not only support our Choctaw Nation efforts, but also the industry at large.”

Interested businesses attempting to scale BVLOS operations should contact the Choctaw Nation and uAvionix to support implementation and scaling of uncrewed aerial system (UAS) operations with multiple C2 links including aviation protected C-band.

uAvionix is a Member of ARPAS-UK

19 June 2023