Flat Panel Medium multi-orbit Ka-band BLOS satcom terminal

Flat Panel Medium is a flat panel BLOS satcom terminal from Cobham Satcom: a multi-orbit Ka-band user terminal that provides beyond-line-of-sight communications links over satellite networks. The maker describes it as a European sovereign flat panel user terminal for satellite communications, built on advanced AESA technology and engineered for mission- and business-critical operations.

The terminal connects across LEO, MEO, HEO and GEO networks and is designed for high-throughput communication with millisecond network switching between constellations. True dual-beam capability enables simultaneous network connections, which supports encrypted communications where break-before-make is not an option. The compact, low-profile design suits fixed, mobile, vehicular and maritime installations where space, weight and performance requirements are critical.

The terminal offers full Ka-band support, in both commercial and Mil-Ka variants, with separate receive and transmit ranges so an integrator can match the panel to the uplink and downlink plan of the chosen constellation. The panel weighs under 12,000 g, a light, low-profile form for platforms where height and mass are limited. Power draw is highest while the terminal is transmitting, which is the condition to use when sizing the vehicle or vessel power supply and planning heat dissipation. The maker's product sheet gives the full figures.

For integration, the edge of the enclosure carries an on/off switch and a row of connectors marked for power, three LAN ports, receive and transmit. Because the panel is electronically steered, there is no mechanical pedestal to install, and the dual-beam architecture lets two network connections run at the same time. The sources do not state the supply voltage range, data protocols, ingress protection rating or operating temperature range, so integrators should confirm these with the maker before design freeze.

The antenna is ruggedized and lightweight, and is designed for reliable operation in harsh maritime and land-based conditions without compromising efficiency. The sources do not list certifications or environmental standards for this terminal, so buyers who need qualification evidence for a specific platform should request it from the maker.

Typical applications include vehicular communications on land platforms, maritime terminals, and fixed or mobile sites that need Ka-band connectivity across several orbits. Support for commercial and Mil-Ka operation and for encrypted communications makes the terminal relevant to both civil and defense users who need uninterrupted links during operations.