ST Engineering iDirect and Black Cat Systems (BCS) are expanding their partnership to create an Advanced Satcom Technology Demonstration Lab intended for the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
According to iDirect, the lab “represents a significant step forward” in providing secure communication systems for the ADF.
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Powered by ST Engineering iDirect’s 450 Software Defined Modem (SDM), the lab will be used to demonstrate secure, resilient, and multi-layered satellite communications (SATCOM) technologies designed to suit the needs of ADF.
The 450SDM is designed for mission-critical communications and can function in both fixed and mobile environments.
It features multiple waveforms and can operate across different satellite orbits, including highly elliptical orbit (HEO), geostationary earth orbit (GEO), medium earth orbit (MEO), and low earth orbit (LEO).
In addition, the modem integrates CSIR interference mitigation technology, which is designed to address interference issues that may affect defence communications.
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By GlobalDataIt is claimed to achieve a 30% reduction in size, weight, and power consumption when compared to previous modem models from the company.
The modem delivers high data rates, supports a range of mobility requirements, includes security features such as TRANSEC, and meets FIPS 140-3 Level 3 compliance standards, said iDirect.
BCS has acquired additional Evolution Defense hubs and 9-Series modems to its offerings and will feature the capabilities of the new 450SDM at the lab.
ST Engineering iDirect Asia regional vice president Terry Bleakley said: “Our expanded partnership with Black Cat Systems underscores our commitment to delivering cutting-edge satcom solutions to the Australian Defence Force.
“The 450SDM, combined with our Evolution Defense platform, showcases our ability to meet the ADF’s critical communication needs with unmatched flexibility, reliability, security, and performance.”
The modem offers flexible key exchange for crypto-agility and removal of CSIR interference in real-time.
ST Engineering iDirect said that the dual Tx/Rx SDM would further enhance these capabilities in future updates.
BCS managing director Keith Rosario said: “We are proud to strengthen our partnership with ST Engineering iDirect. Our Advanced Satcom Technology Demonstration Lab will be used to showcase the 450SDM and other advanced technologies from ST Engineering iDirect that deliver secure, resilient, and mission-critical communication capabilities to empower the ADF in current and future environments.”
In November 2024, the Australian Department of Defence ceased its ongoing acquisition process with Lockheed Martin for a single orbit GEO-based satellite communications system.
Subsequently, the government issued a request for information in July 2025, from industry stakeholders regarding military satellite communication systems.
