Spanish defense company Indra Sistemas has developed and certified a new satellite communication system designed for submarines.
The system uses Ka-band technology to deliver faster and more secure data transmission.
The new terminal, called TSUB-40Ka, marks a shift in how underwater platforms stay connected during missions. It is built to handle higher data speeds compared to older systems used by naval forces.
Traditional submarine communication systems rely on X-band and Ku-band frequencies. These are widely used but offer limited data capacity.
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The TSUB-40Ka operates in the higher-frequency Ka-band of the microwave spectrum. This allows it to send and receive data at much higher speeds, reaching several megabits per second.
Higher frequency also means shorter wavelengths. This reduces the antenna size needed for communication. For submarines, where space is limited, this is a key advantage.
The compact design makes it easier to integrate into modern naval platforms without major structural changes. The system meets strict military standards, including MIL-STD and NATO STANAG requirements. This ensures it can operate reliably in demanding environments.
At the same time, it offers broadband-like connectivity. This combination enables submarines to access data faster while maintaining secure, military-grade communication.
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Indra said the system improves operational capability by enabling better data exchange during missions. This includes real-time communication and enhanced coordination.
The TSUB-40Ka terminal has been certified to work with SpainSat NG, Spain’s upcoming advanced satellite system. SpainSat NG is designed to provide secure and high-capacity communication for government and military use. It operates across multiple frequency bands, including X-band, military Ka-band, and UHF.
This multi-band capability enables flexible, long-range communication, even in complex operational scenarios.
Indra highlighted the importance of this integration. The company said the terminal enables submarines to fully use the advanced features of new Ka-band satellite systems.
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“The TSUB-40Ka terminal enables submarine platforms to take advantage of advanced Ka-band satellite capabilities, expanding secure connectivity for military and government operations,” the company said.
The company also stressed the system’s ability to maintain communication under challenging conditions.
“These capabilities enhance resilience against interference, cyberattacks, and harsh space conditions,” Indra added.
This is increasingly important as modern warfare depends heavily on secure and uninterrupted communication networks.
With the growing reliance on digital systems, submarines need stronger, faster links to command centers and allied forces. The development of Ka-band communication systems reflects a broader shift in defense technology. Militaries are moving toward high-speed, high-capacity networks to support data-intensive operations.
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For submarines operating in isolated and complex environments, this upgrade is especially significant. Indra’s TSUB-40Ka offers a combination of speed, security, and compact design. It shows how satellite communication is evolving to meet the demands of modern naval operations.
As next-generation satellites like SpainSat NG come online, such systems are expected to play a key role in shaping future maritime communication networks.
