ThinKom Successfully Integrates Satcom Antenna with SNC’s RAPCON-X™ Solution for A-ISR Programs

Flight testing program underway for multi-orbit satellite compatibility validation

HAWTHORNE, Calif.  – 17 December 2024 – ThinKom Solutions,Inc. (ThinKom) and SNC have successfully integrated the ThinAir® GT 2517 on SNC’s RAPCON-X aircraft to support SNC’s contractor-owned, contractor-operated (COCO) service programs. The aircraft recently completed its inaugural flight – a significant milestone for the aerial intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (A-ISR) platform, which has been selected for the U.S. Army’sTheater Level High Altitude Expeditionary Next Airborne ISR (ATHENA) project.

Utilizing the Bombardier Global 6500 jet for its base configuration, RAPCON-X is a rapidly configurable, A-ISR platform. It provides advanced, deep-sensing capabilities for use in multi-domain operations against peer and near-peer adversaries. ThinKom’s GT 2517 phased-array satcom antenna system delivers high performance, beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) network connectivity to the fleet.

"As the primary communications pipeline deployed on SNC’s RAPCON-X aircraft, ThinKom's GT 2517 reliably and securely supports assured mission success whenever and wherever needed," said Bill Milroy, Chairman and CTO of ThinKom. "The open-architecture platform provides robust and resilient command, control, and communications capabilities. It is currently operating securely on both civil and government satellite constellations across multiple orbital planes, supporting the most advanced protected waveforms of today and tomorrow."

SNC’s RAPCON-X aircraft are rapidly configurable and deployable, capable of operating with superior range to facilitate immediate worldwide deployments. The GT2517’s aerodynamic, low-profile radome minimizes in-flight drag, resulting in lower fuel consumption and longer time on station, maintaining an operational envelope that enhances survivability.

“ThinKom provides us with a proven multi-orbit platform, delivering flexibility and high-throughput capability to enable a true paradigm shift for high-altitude A-ISR capabilities,” said Tim Harper, SNC’s Vice President of Business Development.

The phased-array antenna delivers seamless roaming between networks in geostationary (GEO) and non-geostationary (NGSO) orbits, ensuring highly efficient worldwide connectivity in a multi-orbit environment. This configuration is supported by a U.S. military-compliant modem, enabling real time, reliable and resilient broadband transmission to and from the aircraft in flight.