SkyHopper PRO wireless data-link product

The SkyHopper PRO is a bi-directional software-defined radio data link from Mobilicom, supplied for unmanned aircraft and other unmanned platforms that need a secured wireless link for command, telemetry and payload data. As a line-of-sight data link it connects an airborne or ground node to a ground station or to other nodes, and the maker adds non-line-of-sight operation for cluttered environments.

The radio supports point-to-point and point-to-multipoint communication, and several transmission modes. The maker quotes up to 5 km of clear line-of-sight radio range. Relay operation extends the line-of-sight reach and covers dead spots, which is useful in urban or industrial areas where buildings and structures block the direct path. Non-line-of-sight communication is intended to hold a usable link despite interference and obstructions. Range in a given installation depends on antennas, power, terrain and the environment, so link budgets should be calculated for the real mission profile.

For video, the link supports full-HD streams in broadcast, multicast and unicast transmission modes, so one aircraft can feed several viewers or a single ground control station. It is described as a universal solution for IP payloads, with no integration needed on the payload side, and it keeps throughput and performance on multiple platforms. The maker states that it is compatible with a wide range of flight controllers, mission software and payloads.

The SkyHopper PRO is offered in three forms. The stand-alone version is a complete unit, the embedded Lite version fits inside an airframe or payload, and the OEM Micro version is for manufacturers building the radio into their own products. The compact and lightweight design targets platforms with tight size, weight and power limits. Interface, mass and power figures are in the maker's downloadable specification.

On security, the radio includes the maker's ICE cybersecurity software, which detects, prevents and responds to cyber threats and malicious attacks in real time without operator intervention. The maker states that the product complies with the US National Defense Authorization Act requirements and the Blue UAS cybersecurity certification, which matters to buyers who must procure NDAA-compliant components for government or enterprise programmes.

Typical applications are drones for security and surveillance, infrastructure and industrial inspection, mining sites, delivery, first-responder and public-safety missions, and other robotic or unmanned platforms, which are the application areas the maker lists for its products.