[Satellite TODAY 08-31-11] Mobile satellite operator Inmarsat has selected Rockwell Collins to be its sole lead partner in developing, producing and distributing user terminals for its upcoming Global Xpress (GX) aeronautical services to the aviation industry. Rockwell Collins also will act as a GX service provider, the companies announced Aug. 30.

   Inmarsat said it has entered into negotiations on the agreement with Rockwell Collins, and expects definitive agreements signed by late 2011. The GX Ka-band broadband connectivity service will be activated after the launch of the first Inmarsat-5 satellite in mid-2013, with global services for commercial air transport, business aviation and government customers launching worldwide in 2014.

   “This world-class partnership is a game-changer for airborne connectivity. Our long and proven track record in providing industry-leading connectivity solutions for business, commercial and government aviation, combined with the differentiated services of Inmarsat GX will result in a compelling global broadband solution that will give passengers and operators the same level of connectivity in the air, as they do on the ground,” Rockwell Collins Vice President and General Manager Steve Timm said in a statement.