XVI LEO Satellite
The XVI LEO satellite has enormous potential to transform communications for military operations
The first test of the XVI low-earth orbit satellite is slated for 2021
The small satellite constellation is designed to offer beyond line-of-sight communications for the Link 16 tactical data link for military communications.
Operating from a 95-degree orbital inclination, the XVI test satellite will have an on-orbit lifetime of at least six months. Benefiting from interoperability with legacy Link 16 terminals already fielded across the Department of Defense, the satellite would support multiple demonstrations due to be undertaken by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, Marine Corps and Special Operations Command.