Laser Optical Communications for High-Speed Data Transmission

Laser optical communication technology will be based on terminals that can transmit and receive optical communications, with users able to share messages, pictures and video at ranges of tens of kilometers By Joseph Macey / 26 Jun 2024

Communication & Data Systems

Discover cutting-edge solutions from 23 leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Development of Laser Optical Communications
Follow DA

A new solution for transmitting and receiving optical communications by laser is being developed by Safran Electronics & Defense.

The solution will enable armed forces to share information at very high speed with no risk of jamming or interception.

Laser optical communication technology will be based on terminals that can transmit and receive optical communications: one terminal to send data encoded in a laser beam, the other to receive it and convert it into digital information. Users will be able to share messages, pictures and video at ranges of tens of kilometers, or even further with the aid of relay satellites.

Laser optical links offer several advantages over traditional radio communication, including discretion and resistance to interference. But also throughput, with speeds of 5 Gb/s to 50 Gb/s, which is a major benefit as data volumes continue to increase and data-hungry AI becomes more widely deployed.

One of the main challenges with an optical communication system is to establish a direct line of sight between two terminals, and then ensure its stability during data transfer, whatever the conditions (for example, heavy swell for naval applications). According to Safran Electronics & Defense, the company has addressed this challenge, drawing on its technological expertise in the development of mobile platform-mounted optronic sights and satellite communication solutions.

Alexandre Ziegler, Executive VP, Defense Gobal Business Unit of Safran Electronics & Defense, said; “We’re one of the only companies in the world today capable of developing this technology at scale for use by the armed forces. We already have sovereign control over all the necessary technological components. And our teams have a deep understanding of military requirements and related technical issues on land, at sea, in the air and in space.” 

Find suppliers of Optical & Electro-Optical Components > >

Posted by Joseph Macey Connect & Contact

Latest Articles

Meltio Expands Additive Manufacturing Distribution Network in Portugal

Meltio has announced a new strategic partnership with PrimeOut to expand its presence in Portugal’s metal additive manufacturing market

May 02, 2025
New Mobile Troposcatter Technology Supports GPS Denied Operations

Spectra Group is set to unveil a mobile troposcatter solution enhancing Comtech’s COMET system, delivering high-bandwidth, satellite-independent communications in contested and GPS-denied environments

May 02, 2025
Micropol Expands Tactical Communications Capabilities with New Production Facility

Micropol Fiberoptic is expanding its tactical communications capabilities with a new high-capacity production facility strategically located along Sweden’s E6 highway in Halmstad

May 02, 2025
ALE: Secure Battery Solutions for DoD & Aerospace Systems

American Lithium Energy (ALE) is a trusted provider of secure, high-performance batteries, delivering essential power solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense and other high-demand sectors

May 02, 2025
Partnership to Enhance Networking Capabilities for Defense Platforms

Amphenol Aerospace and BotBlox have partnered to distribute and integrate compact, rugged Ethernet hardware for defense platforms, enhancing networking capabilities and accelerating product development for uncrewed and mobile systems

May 01, 2025
USMC Receives Extended Range MQ-9A Reaper® from GA-ASI

The U.S. Marine Corps has received a technologically advanced MQ-9A Reaper® UAS from GA-ASI, featuring wing-borne fuel pods and reinforced landing gear for extended 30+ hour endurance

May 01, 2025

Featured Content

Partnership to Enhance Networking Capabilities for Defense Platforms

Amphenol Aerospace and BotBlox have partnered to distribute and integrate compact, rugged Ethernet hardware for defense platforms, enhancing networking capabilities and accelerating product development for uncrewed and mobile systems

May 01, 2025
Sky Power to Showcase ISR UAV Propulsion Technology at XPONENTIAL 2025

Sky Power International will present advanced UAV propulsion technologies at XPONENTIAL 2025, highlighting powerful engines, hybrid systems, and customized solutions for ISR and civilian applications

Apr 29, 2025
Q&A with DEFCROS: Key Insights for the 2025 Expo

DEFCROS Founder Kristijan Ilovača discusses the expo’s rapid growth, international ambitions, and how the event aims to support defense and security innovators

Apr 24, 2025
Advancing Defense Capability Through Strategic Collaboration Defense Advancement works with major OEMs to foster collaboration and increase engagement with SMEs, to accelerate innovation and drive defense capabilities forward.