uAvionix has released a significant software update to its muLTElink product family, enabling advanced link management for assured command and control (C2) and payload connectivity during uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operations.
muLTElink, which integrates up to four independent radios (C-Band, LTE, ISM, and optional IP based radios such as SATCOM or Starlink), includes advanced Dynamic Link Selection and Active Link Monitoring features. These improvements allow seamless, automated make-before-break switching across multiple C2 links—without operator intervention.
The upgrade enables dedicated radios for Command Non-Payload Communications (CNPC) to be optimized for path and frequency diversity, minimizing the risk of lost connectivity in complex terrain or dynamic RF environments, while allowing an additional link for transmittal of payload data.
Additional new capabilities include:
Real-Time Dynamic Link Selection
Automatically chooses 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 monitors all available links and autonomously switches before failure occurs—virtually eliminating link loss.
Improved Network Resilience
Provides true frequency and path diversity. Adversarial interference or coverage gaps in one band are bypassed using alternative paths.
Lower Operational Costs
Intelligent link arbitration reduces unnecessary reliance on high-cost SATCOM by using LTE or ISM when viable.
Field-Proven Reliability
Under 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 optimized for high-risk and complex UAS operations such as long-range linear inspections (pipeline, powerline, rail), emergency response and public safety (DFR, overwatch), as well as urban air mobility (UAM) trials and infrastructure surveys.
FAA Test Site Research & Certification Initiatives
Current muLTElink configurations include the muLTElink5060, which combines LTE and C-Band in a compact 100g, 2W package, and the muLTElink915, offering LTE and ISM radios at 65g.
Both 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 can be combined with a skyLink915 or skyLink5060 for up to four communications links.
Cyriel Kronenburg, VP of UAS and Aviation Networks at uAvionix, commented, “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.
