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Unlocking the future of uncrewed systems: Viasat showcases BVLOS operations in live demonstration

The uncrewed market and low altitude economy is taking flight with a multitude of exciting use cases emerging across a variety of industries. Viasat recently participated in a successful live demonstration, in partnership with Gotonomi and Videosoft Global, of its L-band connectivity solutions enabling BVLOS operations.

10-31-2025

4-minute read 

Transforming the uncrewed market with robust satellite connectivity

The uncrewed market and low-altitude economy are taking flight with a multitude of exciting use cases emerging across a variety of industries. To safely integrate these systems into commercial airspace, reliable and secure connectivity is critical. Viasat has been leading the charge in satellite connectivity and partnering with industry trailblazers to develop industry-shifting solutions.

 

By utilising Viasat’s satellite communications, Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) can be enabled, which is critical for long-range missions or in areas where the traditional communication infrastructure may be unreliable. Its flexibility to support a wide range of applications also enables applications such as real-time video streaming and rapid data exchange.

A close-up view of a drone in the air.
A close-up view of a drone in the air.

BVLOS breakthrough highlights

A drone flying close to the ground.
A drone flying close to the ground.
  • Safety-grade communications: Viasat's L-band connectivity ensured continuous communication during the demonstration, providing a robust communication network for safe and efficient BVLOS activities. 
  • Real-time video streaming: The demonstration showcased real-time video streaming capabilities, enhancing mission success and situational awareness. With a data transfer rate of up to 200kbps, the equivalent of transferring 1-2 photos in mere seconds, users can experience faster and more efficient data exchange. 
  • Diverse BVLOS operations: The technology’s resilient connectivity is the backbone that enables a wide range of BVLOS applications, from delivery and cargo transport to inspection, surveillance, emergency communications, and air taxis. By providing seamless integration with air traffic management systems, supporting real-time command and control, monitoring of onboard systems, and high-quality video streaming, satellite communications unlock the full potential of BVLOS operations.

Implications for the commercial UAV market

As urban air transport, Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs), and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) platforms move toward commercial adoption, the demand for resilient and secure connectivity will continue to skyrocket. This successful demonstration highlights the critical role Viasat's Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) technology has in enabling global scalability in the commercial UAV market.

As the demand for BVLOS operations continues to grow, Viasat is well-positioned to support the development of this market. Collaboration is the backbone of innovation in the AAM community. By working together with partners like in this demonstration, we can create a robust and interconnected system enabling industry scalability.

 

Anthony Spoucer
Senior Director of Advanced Air Mobility at Viasat. 

Anthony Spoucer, Senior Director of Advanced Air Mobility at Viasat.
Anthony Spoucer, Senior Director of Advanced Air Mobility at Viasat.

About the partners

Viasat

As the AAM market continues to evolve at pace, the need for resilient and secure connectivity becomes increasingly critical. Viasat is at the forefront of this development, delivering reliable satellite connectivity tailored for emerging aviation markets, from eVTOLs and UAVs to next-generation Air Taxis. By leveraging its resilient satellite connectivity and collaborating with key partners on integration, Viasat is accelerating the future of connected aviation and supporting the growth of the AAM ecosystem.

Viasat logo.

Gotonomi

Gotonomi, a TTP company, specializes in developing miniaturized satellite and cellular connectivity solutions for UAVs. Partnering with Viasat enables BVLOS operations and provides a reliable and secure datalink between vehicles, remote operators, and UAV Traffic Management (UTM) systems. With a focus on low Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP), Gotonomi’s portfolio allows for integration onto a variety of different vehicles.

Gotonomi logo.

Videosoft Global

Videosoft Global’s ultra-low bandwidth video streaming technology is particularly beneficial for UAV operations, enabling reliable video transmission in challenging environments. Supporting many UAV applications, including inspection, surveillance, and monitoring, Videosoft’s expertise allows for video delivery rates as low as 1kbps. This technology is crucial for UAVs operating in remote or network-limited areas.

Videosoft Global logo.

Looking to enable BVLOS UAV operations? Get in touch today!