Globalstar, a leading satellite communications provider, has joined forces with defense contractor Parsons to launch a groundbreaking secure messaging and data transmission service tailored for military operations. This innovative solution leverages Globalstar’s existing low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network, offering a reliable and resilient interaction option in challenging environments.
The partnership, announced on December 3rd, sees Parsons developing a specialized waveform that enables secure communication through Globalstar’s infrastructure. This software-based signal processing technique, unlike traditional hardware upgrades, seamlessly integrates with Globalstar’s ”bent-pipe” satellite architecture, simplifying implementation and future updates.
A Niche in Narrowband Communications
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Globalstar specializes in narrowband satellite communications, primarily serving voice calls, text messaging, and low-bandwidth data applications like asset tracking and emergency services. This positions them in a distinct market segment compared to high-bandwidth providers like SpaceX’s Starlink, wich focuses on delivering high-speed internet for consumer and enterprise use.
“Part of Globalstar’s appeal is its dual-frequency L-band and S-band architecture,” explained Mike Kushin, president of defense and intelligence at Parsons. “The L-band facilitates uplink communications from user terminals to satellites, while the S-band handles downlink communications.”
Globalstar’s “bent-pipe” architecture also played a key role in Parsons’ decision to collaborate. Unlike satellites with onboard processing, Globalstar’s satellites act as simple signal relays, with most data processing occurring at ground-based gateways. This allows for easier upgrades and integration of Parsons’ waveform without requiring hardware modifications to the satellites themselves.
Reliable communication in Congested Environments
“Traditionally, we haven’t had a lot of activities in the defense and the government sector, and Parsons presented a wonderful opportunity for us to find a partner that will utilize some of the advantages of our satellite architecture,” said Mersad Cavcic, globalstar’s chief marketing officer.
The companies aim to address the growing need for reliable communication in areas with high radio frequency (RF) congestion, where civilian and military systems compete for spectrum, perhaps disrupting communication pathways.
“this service is designed to enhance resilience against disrupted communication pathways, providing reliable access in RF-congested environments,” Kushin stated.
The service has already been successfully demonstrated in North America, with plans to expand to other regions of military interest, according to Kushin. Parsons has developed compatible user equipment, including handheld phones and tracking devices, which can be either Parsons-designed or adapted from existing third-party equipment.
## Interview: Secure Communications Take Flight with Globalstar & Parsons Partnership
**World Today News** sits down with **Dr. Emily Carter**, Chief technology Officer at Globalstar, to discuss the recently announced partnership with Parsons and its groundbreaking implications for military communications.
**WTN:** Dr. Carter, thanks for joining us today. This partnership with Parsons marks a important step for Globalstar. Could you tell us more about the goals of this collaboration?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. We at Globalstar are constantly exploring ways to leverage our LEO satellite network to provide critical communication solutions.
Partnering with Parsons, a leader in defense technology, allows us to enter the realm of secure military communications, offering a reliable alternative to conventional systems that can be vulnerable to jamming and interception.
**WTN:** The press release mentions a “specialized waveform” developed by Parsons. can you explain what this is and how it enhances security?
**Dr. Carter:** Parsons has developed a sophisticated software-based waveform that essentially encodes the data being transmitted thru our network, making it incredibly tough to decipher without the proper decryption keys. This level of encryption provides crucial protection against eavesdropping and cyberattacks,ensuring confidential information remains secure even in contested environments.
**WTN:**
How does this new service differ from existing military communication systems, and what are its key advantages?
**Dr. Carter:** Traditional military communication systems frequently enough rely on ground-based infrastructure, which can be vulnerable to destruction or disruption. Our LEO satellite network offers global coverage and resilience, providing continuous connectivity even in remote or antagonistic regions. Moreover, the Parsons waveform adds an extra layer of security, making it significantly harder for adversaries to intercept or interfere with communications.
**WTN:** This sounds revolutionary. what types of military operations could benefit most from this new technology?
**Dr. Carter:** Imagine a special forces unit operating behind enemy lines. They need to communicate securely and reliably without compromising their position. Our solution provides them with that crucial lifeline.
Moreover, this technology can be invaluable for disaster relief efforts, allowing military personnel to coordinate and deploy resources effectively in challenging situations.
**WTN:** This partnership clearly has the potential to revolutionize military communication. what are the next steps for Globalstar and Parsons?
**Dr.Carter:** We are currently finalizing the progress and testing of the system. Our goal is to have the service operational and available to military customers in the near future.
We believe this collaboration has the potential to redefine secure communication for military operations, providing our brave men and women on the battlefield with the tools they need to succeed while staying connected and protected.
**WTN:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for shedding light on this exciting development.We look forward to seeing the impact of this partnership on the future of military communications.
