uAvionix has introduced a significant software update to its muLTElink product family, enabling advanced link management for assured Command and Control (C2) and payload connectivity during UAS operations.
muLTElink, which integrates up to four independent radios (C-Band, LTE, ISM, and optional IP-based radios such as SATCOM or Starlink), now includes advanced Dynamic Link Selection and Active Link Monitoring features. These enhancements allow seamless, automated make-before-break switching across multiple C2 links, without operator intervention.
The update enables dedicated radios for Command Non-Payload Communications (CNPC) to be optimized for path and frequency diversity, reducing the risk of lost connectivity in complex terrain or dynamic RF environments, while also supporting an additional link for payload data transmission.
New Capabilities and Highlights
- Real-Time Dynamic Link Selection – Automatically selects the optimal link (LTE, C-Band, ISM, or an IP-based radio such as SATCOM) based on real-time signal quality, interference, and geographic conditions.
- Active Link Monitoring – Continuously evaluates all available links and autonomously switches before failure occurs—virtually eliminating link loss.
- Improved Network Resilience – Enables true frequency and path diversity. Adversarial interference or coverage gaps in one band are bypassed using alternative links.
- Lower Operational Costs – Intelligent link arbitration reduces dependence on high-cost SATCOM by prioritizing LTE or ISM when viable.
- Field-Proven Reliability – During FAA contract testing, muLTElink achieved 99.97% link availability across a 360-mile flight path, with less than 5 seconds of total downtime over 4.3 hours.
Deployment Scenarios
The upgraded muLTElink is designed for high-risk and complex UAS operations, including:
- Long-range linear inspections (pipeline, powerline, rail)
- Emergency response and public safety (DFR, overwatch)
- Urban air mobility (UAM) trials and infrastructure surveys
- FAA test site research and certification initiatives
Both models support external SATCOM integration and are managed via uAvionix’s SkyLine C2 Manager, a web-based platform for link arbitration and C2 application integration. Either muLTElink unit can be paired with a skyLink915 or skyLink5060 to support up to four simultaneous communication links.
Cyriel Kronenburg, VP of UAS and Aviation Networks at uAvionix, stated, “This release delivers meaningful improvements in operational resilience and cost-efficiency that our customers have asked for. Our customers face unpredictable terrain, RF interference, and increasing complexity while trying to control the aircraft and complete the mission. muLTElink’s enhanced automation means the UAS selects the best available link in real-time for C2 and keeps payload data streaming—so operators can focus on the mission, not the network, all through a single device.”
Meet with uAvionix at XPONENTIAL 2025, Booth 3033.
