Gotonomi, Viasat & Videosoft Global have successfully completed a collaborative UAV flight demo, showcasing the next generation of satellite-enabled communications & real-time video streaming technology for UAVs.
The trial demonstrated how the three companies are enabling reliable Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations with assured connectivity, continuous payload data links, and enhanced safety standards.
Advancing UAV Safety & Connectivity
The demonstration integrated Gotonomi’s lightweight, ultra-low power satellite terminals, Viasat’s secure Velaris L-Band network, and Videosoft Global’s industrial-grade streaming software, addressing one of UAV operations’ biggest challenges: maintaining reliable command, control, and payload data links in demanding environments.
Gotonomi showcased its ultra-low SWaP-C terminals, delivering up to 200 kbps connectivity for UAVs of all sizes via Viasat’s Velaris network, a resilient, secure BVLOS communications service enabling safe integration into commercial airspace.
Videosoft’s real-time streaming technology, embedded on a Gotonomi Multilink terminal and proven in BVLOS missions worldwide, ensured uninterrupted video even in low-bandwidth conditions, enhancing situational awareness and rapid decision-making.
Stewart McCone, CEO, Videosoft Global, stated, “Ultra-low bandwidth, real-time video streaming is transforming what UAVs can achieve. Working alongside Viasat and Gotonomi, we’re showing how satcom-enabled resilient connectivity and visual reliability can transform UAV operations globally and unlock operational envelopes that were previously unattainable.”
Demonstrating Scalable & Cost-Effective UAV Communications
The flight trial was conducted on a UAV test platform developed by Aero Solutions, designed to validate advanced technologies in real-world scenarios. With a strong focus on reducing SWaP-C, the demonstration proved that safe, scalable UAV communications can now be delivered at a fraction of the cost of legacy systems, significantly lowering barriers to global adoption.
Matt Hill, General Manager, Gotonomi, added, “This flight trial demonstrates the real-world potential of combining advanced satellite connectivity with video streaming innovation. By partnering with Viasat and Videosoft Global, we are demonstrating that satellite communications is not only possible but practical for UAVs of all sizes — enabling both safety-critical communications required for BVLOS and revenue-generating payload data in a miniaturized form factor. Collaboration like this is vital to accelerating safe integration into airspace and unlocking new applications that depend on dependable communications.”
Joint Presentation at BCN Drone Day
Following the successful trial, Gotonomi, Videosoft Global and Viasat will present their technologies together at BCN Drone Day, taking place 8-9 October, an international event dedicated to the future of UAV operations.
The session, titled “How to Scale Remote Drone Operations with Satcom,” will explore how satellite-enabled connectivity is unlocking new UAV applications in inspection, surveillance, cargo delivery, and emergency response, as well as advanced roles in border security, environmental monitoring, and disaster relief.
Event Highlights:
- Expert panels and roundtables on UAV safety and regulation
- Three live demo flights showcasing fully connected UAS in real-world scenarios Regulatory outlook from leading industry voices
- Networking with 50+ global drone experts and media
- Breakout sessions with 6+ UAS technology specialists
Mark ter Hove, Commercial UAV Market Development, Viasat, said, “This landmark event unites industry leaders, regulators, and operators to both showcase and validate the readiness of Viasat and its partners to scale transformative solutions for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) sectors. As the Platinum sponsor, Viasat is honoured to support this initiative—and even more so to be at the forefront of innovation, setting the pace for others to follow.”
