Boeing Completes FAB-T Satellite Communications Tests, Ready to Support US Nuclear Forces

Milstar F 5 Satellite. Photo: Hughes Space Communications Company

[Via Satellite 11-26-13] Boeing’s Defense Space & Security division’s Family of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals (FAB-T) development program has completed the functional qualification-testing phase for the protected wideband satellite communications system. FAB-T will be used in the command and control of U.S. nuclear forces.

Boeing’s tests verified operational capabilities required for the ground and airborne terminal types specified in the U.S. Air Force FAB-T development contract. The tests involved multiple terminals and orbiting Advanced Extremely High Frequency and Milstar satellites, which will carry FAB-T communications. FAB-T command post terminals will be installed in fixed and mobile ground installations as well as aboard E-4B airborne operations center and E 6 airborne command post aircraft. Advanced wideband terminals will be installed on B 2 and B 52 bombers and RC 135 reconnaissance aircraft.