L-TAC from TrustComm, available now, uses existing fielded UHF tactical radios to access the Inmarsat-4, L-band satellite constellation when UHF capacity is not available for any reason. TrustComm has been conducting live demonstrations of L-TAC at selected locations worldwide with excellent feedback, particularly for those users who have a Communications-on-the-Move (COTM) requirement for UHF.

By attaching a Spectra Group Slingshot adaptor kit (a small converter and antenna) to the external communications port of commonly used UHF MILSAT radios, users can achieve short-term and/or longer-term network access to private leased channels on Inmarsat satellites that have the same capabilities as UHF 25kHz channels (e.g. one 56kbps wideband channel or five 5kHz ANDVT voice channels) on UHF MILSAT or UHF commercial satellites.

“TrustComm recognizes the value of L-TAC’s capabilities and the gap it fills, along with the significant cost savings for government end users when compared to commercial UHF channels. We have dedicated significant resources to field this service, working closely with Inmarsat and Spectra Group,” said TrustComm Chief Executive Officer Bob Roe. “Being selected as an Inmarsat Service Provider for L-TAC demonstrates Inmarsat’s confidence in our secure infrastructure and our deep understanding of military COMSATCOM requirements.”

Roe added, “We look forward to helping military forces effectively and efficiently deploy L-TAC to exercise greater command and control through existing tactical radios, improving mission assurance – all at an affordable cost. I am particularly impressed with the reliability and clarity this service offers while on the move, and can appreciate how well this will be received in the operator community – especially by those who don’t like to pause on the move.”

Peter Hadinger, president of Inmarsat’s U.S. Government Business Unit, said, “TrustComm has identified the value of the Inmarsat L-TAC capability for its user groups and has been actively demonstrating and providing valuable feedback on the solution for the past year.”