On Monday, Astronics unveiled the Typhon T-400 satcom system, which is engineered to operate on any geostationary-earth-orbit (GEO)-based Ku-band satellite network. With the T-400, Astronics aims to mitigate the traditionally high costs associated with equipping aircraft with satcom connectivity.

The design of the Typhon T-400 includes a reduction in the number of line replaceable units (LRUs) required from four to two. This simplification not only eases the installation process but also substantially lowers the cost of satellite connectivity. “Customizable variants of the system, including a modem-less configuration, offer special mission and military end-users heightened flexibility," according to Astronics CSC president Mike Kuehn.

New in the Typhon T-400 is integration of the iQ800 modem technology developed by iDirect that offers solid data transmission rates and connectivity. The T-400 series also introduces a unique modem manager, which Astronics said is notable for its flange-mount design and environmental specifications. This feature allows for versatile mounting options, inside or outside the pressure vessel, catering to an array of mounting preferences on the aircraft's fuselage or tail.