RT LTA Unveils New Cellular Communications System for Tactical Aerostats

RT LTA Systems Ltd., an Israeli developer and manufacturer of aerostat systems for surveillance and reconnaissance, has unveiled its new cellular communications system for tactical aerostat platforms at the International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

RT announced that it has completed the development and integration of a cellular communication system based on the SkyStar™ 330 platform. The new system was installed on a tactical and mobile aerostat and has been operated in recent months by one of its local clients.

According to RT, the system's advantages include rapid deployment capability, enabling full setup with communication and data channels established within approximately one hour of arrival on-site. The aerostat, operating at a height of about 500 meters AGL (Above Ground Level), provides a line of sight covering dozens of kilometers.

To minimize the aerostat’s size, the communication system is divided into two parts, with only essential equipment elevated. The ground equipment is connected to the aerial payload via optical fibers within the tethered cable, which also supplies power, ensuring high availability and continuous operation. The system is currently operated by a team of three, and in the next phase—already in advanced development—it will be controlled remotely and autonomously.

Rami Shmueli, RT’s CEO, stated: "The system is suitable for various scenarios, including covering large areas without existing infrastructure, post-disaster situations where infrastructure is damaged, urgent deployment of communication channels for search and rescue teams, and temporary installations for special events to enhance existing communication systems. Based on our experience in this process, I can confidently say that we can integrate any operator from any country. The system is designed for both civilian and military applications."