Viasat Inc has collaborated with TTP plc and Frequentis AG, under the European Space Agency (ESA) Iris programme, on a recent Iris RPAS flight trial. The demo aims to understand how emerging connectivity technologies support Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM) interaction and controlled BVLOS operations in complex and remote environments.
According to a Viasat press release: “The activity forms part of ESA’s wider Iris programme (Iris SATCOM Global), which primarily targets commercial aviation and is designed to build evidence around trusted communications for the safe integration of aircraft into shared, non‑segregated airspace. Within this context, RPAS represents a specific element contributing to the broader commercial aviation framework. BVLOS operations are critical in remote or hard‑to‑access environments, where aircraft must often carry out precise manoeuvres beyond direct visual control. In these scenarios, safe operations depend on reliable interaction between the aircraft, the remote operator and wider airspace systems, rather than line‑of‑sight oversight alone.
This trial focused on observing how new connectivity technologies behave under real flight conditions and how they support the exchange of trusted information with airspace management systems, said the company. The objective was to better understand how uncrewed aircraft can be monitored, directed and adapted during flight, including how uncrewed aircraft can be monitored and managed during flight including under more demanding operational conditions.
By examining connectivity behaviour alongside UTM interaction, the trial reflects the practical realities of future BVLOS operations, where communications and airspace coordination must work together to maintain situational awareness, predictability and safety.
“UTM integration and resilient network capabilities are core pillars of the ESA Iris RPAS activities- not just operational add-ons,” said Joel Klooster, SVP Aircraft Operations and Safety at Viasat. “Through the Iris RPAS trial, we’re validating how advanced, multilink networks can support real-time interaction, airspace awareness, and continuity of command and control in live operating conditions. The results show an enhanced, interoperable network is foundational for safe, efficient, and scalable UAV operations within managed airspace.”
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(Image: Viasat)