SATCOM for Air Traffic Management: Benefits and Technological Roadmap of the FOC Space Segment Solution

Satellite communications (SATCOM) play a crucial role as a key technological enabler for Air Traffic Management (ATM) modernisation, as part of the Future Communications Infrastructure (FCI) encompassing terrestrial and non-terrestrial data links. SATCOM offers enhanced capacity across continental and remote/oceanic regions to meet the ever increasing traffic demand while fulfilling performance and safety objectives for real-time sharing of 4D trajectories and timely access to ATM data and information services. SATCOM enhances cost efficiency, data link availability, capacity, safety and security, while also introducing environmental benefits through optimised traffic routes that reduce the CO2 footprint per flight. This paper offers insights into the Full Operational Capability (FOC)/Long Term Space Segment technological solution defined by Thales Alenia Space in Italy as a contribution to the ESA Iris Programme. The work includes a description of the design and deployment scenarios of a satellite constellation that meets the future SATCOM targets for availability, reliability and capacity. These targets are achieved through a flexible and reconfigurable Space Segment solution based on digital processing and innovative on-board equipment, pre-developed and tested by means of an incremental integration and test campaign. The technological progress being achieved in the context of the Iris FOC Space Segment design, paves the way for advanced, flexible and reliable space-based digital narrowband systems for the future ATM integrated communication infrastructure, to efficiently address the diverse and critical communication needs of the modern era, while enabling significant environmental benefits.