Next-generation satellite communication technology from CTech
CTech, which developed next-generation phased array satellite communication antenna SkyARX E-Ku, has gained a critical technological capability for high-speed and low-observable airborne platforms. The company aims to expand the product family it has established in this field and enter international markets.
CTech, a subsidiary of Turkish Aereospace and a developer of satellite and line-of-sight (LOS) communication technologies for the defence and aerospace sectors, has developed next-generation phased array satellite communication antenna, SkyARX E-Ku. Developed especially for next-generation airborne platforms that require low observability and high aerodynamic performance, the system provides uninterrupted satellite communications through its electronic beam steering capability without requiring mechanical movement. Unlike conventional parabolic antenna systems, the product features a flat-panel architecture and can operate without compromising satellite communication performance while preserving the aerodynamic structure of the platform. Thanks to its low-profile design, SkyARX E-Ku can be integrated into platforms where radar visibility and aerodynamic efficiency are critical. By utilizing phased array antenna technology, it can electronically steer the satellite connection. Thus, continuity of the satellite link is maintained while the platform manoeuvres, without the need for the antenna to physically move.
Stating that they have been carrying out development activities for approximately three years as part of the SkyARX E-Ku program, CTech General Manager Dr. Cüneyd Fırat noted that the product represents a significant technological achievement for Türkiye. Dr. Cüneyd Fırat said, “Our work on this technology entered our roadmaps approximately three years ago and has been matured through intensive R&D activities over the last one and a half years. We have gained significant capabilities in areas such as cell architecture, which forms the foundation of phased array antenna technologies, electronic beam steering capability, and low-profile design. SkyARX E-Ku represents the first member of our product family in this field, and in the coming period, we aim to expand this portfolio with new solutions for different platforms.”
Phased array antenna technologies are becoming increasingly important, particularly for platforms operating at high speeds, requiring low radar visibility, and having limited antenna installation space. For this reason, SkyARX E-Ku is expected to find significant application, particularly in next-generation unmanned aerial vehicles as well as future airborne and naval platforms. While continuing the development of the product, CTech is carrying out R&D activities aimed at increasing performance, reducing power consumption, optimizing weight and size, and developing platform-specific configurations for different applications.
Emphasizing that demand for phased array satellite communication solutions is increasing worldwide, Dr. Cüneyd Fırat stated, “We see that this technology has significant value not only in our country but also in international markets. We already have demands coming from different regions and ongoing activities in this field. We aim to bring the capabilities we have gained in phased array antenna technologies to global markets and to pursue significant opportunities on the export side as well.”
photo courtesy CTech
