Schiebel, OPTIMAS begin “free-space” optical comms system

OPTIMAS, a European project led by “monodon by Navantia”, has begun with the aim of developing an advanced free-space optical communication system for multi-domain defence applications in collaboration with Schiebel. OPTIMAS is an ambitious project that seeks to provide high-speed data transfer communications with an exceptional level of security, integrating cutting-edge encryption technologies, such as quantum key distribution (QKD). OPTIMAS will mark a milestone in the development of airborne laser communication systems, providing secure and high-speed communications. It is designed to operate in satellite constellations with applications for space, air (drones), naval and ground units. The project’s final demonstrator will focus on achieving high-speed, secure, bidirectional optical communications. It will enable advanced satellite pointing, acquisition and tracking capabilities in Low Earth Orbits (LEO). Application in Medium Earth Orbits (MEO) and Geostationary Orbits (GEO) will be also explored, expanding the scope and possibilities of the system. OPTIMAS is a European consortium with Spanish leadership. It is a powerful group made up of 12 entities from seven countries, highlighting a strong Spanish presence with 6 organisations involved. Among these, monodon by Navantia assumes the role of project coordinator, reaffirming Spain’s leadership in advanced defence and communications technologies. Schiebel’s CAMCOPTER S-100 will be the dedicated Unmanned Air System (UAS) for this project and the company is in charge of integrating a novel optical laser communication technology into the S-100, enabling the communication between the air segment and a satellite. The project is developed within the framework of the 2023 work programme of the European Defence Fund (EDF), consolidating international cooperation in technological innovation for defence. OPTIMAS is formed by: monodon by Navantia (Spain) as coordinator CAILABS (France) Centro de Láseres Pulsados – CLPU (Spain) TECNOBIT SLU (Spain) GMVIS SKYSOFT SA (Portugal) Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (Spain) MBRYONICS LIMITED (Ireland) ODYSSEUS Space SA (Luxemburg) REFLEX AEROSPACE GMBH (Germany) SCHIEBEL ELEKTRONISCHE GERAETE GMBH (Austria) SENER (Spain) Universidad de Valencia (Spain) Universidad de Vigo (Spain) OPTIMAS is positioned as a key project in the advancement of cyber-secure laser communications, consolidating European collaboration and the technological leadership of Schiebel in the field of multi-domain defence. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at [email protected]