A team led by U.K.-based Stratospheric Platforms Limited has successfully demonstrated a 5G high altitude platform integrated into a BN2T-4S Islander aircraft, manufactured by Britten-Norman.
SPL, a non-terrestrial networks telecom developer, developed the 5G phased array antenna used in the trial. The flight test included assessment of aircraft performance and handling qualities, covering both normal and emergency operation. The system will enable connection speeds of up to 200 Mbps over a coverage area of 5,800 square miles.
The turboprop BN2T-4S Islander variant was chosen for its robust design, all-weather capability, exceptional endurance and payload capacity, according to Britten-Norman. In addition, the company said its aircraft’s modular design makes a good platform for integration of large payloads.
“This project demonstrates the full capabilities of both Britten-Norman as an accomplished trials organization and the turboprop Islander as a highly capable trials aircraft,” said Dr. Garnet Ridgway, Head of Flight Dynamics at Britten-Norman. “The large and complex nature of the system places significant demands on the host aircraft. However, the BN2T-4S performed admirably.”
The next phase of the project involves demonstrating the technology via a connection to a private U.K.-based national 5G telecommunications network.
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