UHF Satellite Communications

The Challenge

To ensure high system availability on surface, sub-surface and shore-based platforms for critical voice and data communications.

Our Solution

The ability for any naval vessel to exchange data and voice communications from anywhere in the world via satellites is a critical success factor to any mission.

Maintaining these systems in high readiness requires a logistical support system that is capable of repairing or replacing any system component – anywhere in the world – with the shortest possible delay.

We are tasked by MoD UK to provide an Integrated Logistic Support programme for the Royal Navy’s surface and sub-surface fleets, headquarters and non-operational units, including the training schools and various reference facilities.

As subject matter experts to the MoD, we continually monitor the potential obsolescence of components and systems and advise the customer on the procurement of replacements. We also provide system design, integration and installation support for new vessels or classes, such as the Type 26 frigates and Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers.

In order to achieve the required levels of operational availability, we provide a 24/7/365 telephone helpdesk to allow onboard personnel to seek advice or report faults from anywhere in the world. By analysing usage and reliability, an optimised store of spare equipment, components and antennas is maintained in a bonded facility, ready to be dispatched with CONDO-trained, expert engineers to re-establish capability anywhere in the world.

The requirement also covers the supply and fitting of equipment, presentation trials, on and offloading of systems, embarked equipment maintenance, and continuation training to qualify ships’ staff.

The UK MoD has relied on STS Defence to provide Integrated Logistic Support for its mission-critical UHF satellite communications systems for the Royal Navy’s surface and sub-surface fleets, headquarters, and training schools for over twenty years. We recognise that UHF satellite communications is a strategic capability that is vital for the safe and effective functioning of a blue-water navy and are committed to ensuring that it provides and supports systems that perform, and are efficiently supported, according to their operational requirements within a dependable and secure service environment.