ViaSat Inc has been selected by Connexion by Boeing for the design, development and initial production of 55 airborne broadband terminals for the business aviation market.
The engineering and production of the data transceiver router server (DTRS) subsystems are part of the Connexion by Boeing and Rockwell Collins agreement to launch Rockwell Collins' eXchange mobile Internet access service for operators of business aircraft.
"This is an important step in expanding the market for the Connexion by Boeing service. Connexion by Boeing is committed to providing broadband Internet access to a wide range of mobile users, and we are pleased to be a part of this initiative to provide services to these airborne platforms," said Steve Cable, vice president, ViaSat Broadband Systems.
ViaSat is already producing airborne and ground receiver and transmitter subsystems for Connexion by Boeing service on commercial airlines. As a derivative of these current products, the DTRS is designed to meet the unique needs of the eXchange service for general aviation. The timing of the DTRS production deliveries enables aircraft installations in preparation for initial eXchange service launch in 2005.
Rockwell Collins and Connexion by Boeing formed a strategic agreement to pursue mobile real-time, high-speed Internet access communication services for business aircraft.
Connexion by Boeing has a global network for bringing high- speed intranet, e-mail, and Internet services to aircraft in flight. Rockwell Collins brings its integration, installation, and customer support expertise. Rockwell Collins' eXchange offers an array of high-speed data services via a space-based network to these aircraft.
"The interoperability of the ViaSat DTRS with the Connexion by Boeing global network enables us to leverage the powerful ground and space segments that are already in place for the US Government and commercial airline customers," said Connexion by Boeing vice president of Strategy & Business Development Sean Schwinn.
"This is the next in a family of products and partnerships that enables us to provide affordable high-speed, real-time communication services to an expanding customer base, operating over a global network."
