Teradek’s onboard bonded connectivity system is at the core of a highly customized Airbus H125 delivered by Metro Aviation to the Texas Department of Public Safety, enabling a resilient, multi-path communications architecture designed for continuous mission data transmission in remote and austere environments.
Integrated with a permanently mounted Starlink antenna and cellular networks, Teradek’s system creates a triple-bonded, bidirectional data link for real-time video and mission-critical communications. During flight testing, the system demonstrated less than 0.5% signal obstruction and maintained an average signal quality of 98%, underscoring its performance under demanding operational conditions.
The connectivity suite was developed in collaboration with Austin-based Tejas Advanced Solutions and forms part of a broader technology package defining one of the most advanced public safety H125 configurations to date. The aircraft is the first H125 platform to feature a permanently mounted, hardwired Starlink antenna integrated into a bonded communications architecture.
Beyond the communications backbone, Metro Aviation equipped the aircraft with an extensive mission systems package tailored for law enforcement and emergency response operations. This includes integration of the Shotover ARS-750 mapping system, Wescam MX-10 sensor, and Trakka TL360 searchlight, along with a custom tactical cabin layout and hoist control enhancements.
Additional systems include forward- and aft-facing cameras, an AEM digital audio system, an Axnes Wireless Intercom System, internal cabin camera, LifePort tail rotor illumination lighting, and Whelen 600 Series position lights.
Shawn Bruton, Metro Aviation Part 145 Director of Maintenance, said, “Texas DPS is always on the cutting edge of aviation innovation and equipment. They consistently challenge our team to push the envelope, allowing us to deliver first-of-its-kind law enforcement configurations that set an entirely new standard for airborne law enforcement missions. Bringing in a partner like Tejas Advanced Solutions ensures our teams can all go that extra mile and deliver truly ground-breaking solutions.”
David Magocsi, Chief Technology Officer at Tejas Advanced Solutions, said, “TXDPS has a well-earned reputation for being at the forefront of technology adoption and continuously expanding their mission capabilities in order to better serve the people of Texas. It is truly an honor to support an agency with such a forward-looking vision. We’re equally proud of our partnership with Metro Aviation, whose expertise, professionalism, and commitment to excellence make it possible to deliver such innovative solutions.”
Marcus Tomerlin, Assistant Chief Pilot of the Texas DPS Airborne Law Enforcement Division, added, “I am incredibly proud to welcome this new Airbus H125 helicopter into our fleet. This aircraft represents a significant investment in public safety and will enhance our ability to support law enforcement operations, search and rescue missions, and critical response efforts across Texas. Most importantly, it strengthens our commitment to serving and protecting the citizens of Texas.
“I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to Metro Aviation and Tejas Advanced Solutions for their professionalism, expertise, and dedication throughout the completion process. Their exceptional work ensures that our crews have the highest-quality aircraft and equipment available to safely and effectively carry out our mission.”
The Teradek-enabled connectivity architecture, combined with advanced mission systems integration, positions the H125 as a significant step forward in resilient, data-driven public safety aviation.
