Helinet Technologies has been selected by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to develop and implement a microwave downlink and satellite system for the DPS Aircraft Section’s Pilatus PC-12 NG Spectre.
The new system enables the high-altitude Pilatus to transmit real-time surveillance images and data to fixed and portable receive sites around the state and augments the Department’s existing helicopter-based video downlink capability, the companies said. Pilatus aircrews can also broadcast the same, live streaming images to anywhere in the world via the system’s satellite technology.
"We are pleased to have been selected by DPS to equip and maintain this new multi-platform video and data solution for the Department’s new Pilatus PC-12 NG Spectre," said Ron Magocsi, chief technical officer at Helinet Technologies. "We look forward to continuing to support DPS as its aviation technology partner."
Helinet said the system will provide DPS with a long range surveillance system that can capture actionable intelligence from standoff distances of several miles and enables operators to transmit uninterrupted HD and SD aerial images to multiple agencies and receive sites simultaneously. The system is fully integrated into the department’s overall airborne imaging infrastructure.
"Helinet’s work with DPS in developing and supporting our existing microwave downlink capabilities has been superlative," said Tim Ochsner, assistant chief pilot at DPS. "When the decision was made to add a high-altitude surveillance aircraft to our airborne operations, selecting Helinet to deploy the downlink and the satellite capabilities was an easy call. We know we can rely on the firm to deliver the best possible solution backed by ongoing training and unparalleled 24/7 service."