Author: skissinger

Lite Coms USG Sales Director George Cerasani Talks Network Resiliency at Modern Day Marine

In this conversation at Modern Day Marine, Lite Coms U.S. Government Sales Director George Cerasani discusses how Lite Coms designs its products to provide tactical, multi-orbit connectivity in order to give U.S. government customers like the Marines the ability to operate across multiple satcom networks.

Via Satellite Executive Editor Jeffrey Hill interviews Cerasani about some of the company’s products, including its CART terminal architecture.

“You need to have resiliency in your network,” Cerasani says. “We need some LEO, some GEO, some LTE. We need a little bit of everything in case you’re going against a near-peer threat and things happen on certain networks and you have to switch over.”

Hill: Hello everybody. This is Jeffrey Hill from Via Satellite Magazine and I’m here at Modern Day Marine in Lite Com’s booth with George Cerasani from Lite Coms.

George, good to see you.

Cerasani: Good to see you.

Hill: Welcome. How’s the show been going for you so far?

Cerasani: It’s been great this year. It’s been very busy. A lot of foot traffic, a lot of people stopping by asking about our equipment.

Hill: Yeah. Lots of excitement here. I can already tell. I can see even on the last day there’s a lot of people taking a look at all the products here.

But we are here in front of your multi-orbit 1.3A terminal. And we also have some of your CART minis, your infrastructure – we’re going to talk about in a bit.

I wanted to ask you uh with Lite Com’s 1.3 terminal, what kind of operational advantages do you—does the terminal provide? This is a multi-orbit terminal, so what advantages would that provide to war fighter in operations?

Cerasani: Yeah, so the Lite Sat 1.3 is is very unique. It’s multi-orbit. It does MEO, GEO and HEO, so the highly elliptical orbit. It’s certified on multiple different constellations, and the pack out is extremely small. Three cases, it can be airline checkable, which makes it awesome for a logistic standpoint. So that’s our huge advantage of it right now.

Hill: Yeah. I heard people earlier talking to you, asking if it was compatible with different constellations, and you said like it was it was compatible with a lot of different.

Cerasani: Yep.

Hill: Yeah. Yeah. There’s been a lot of talk here about the sort of, you know, Marines on the move on, comm’s on the move, which is no surprise for a military show. But can you tell us from your perspective how you expect those requirements for true comms on the move for the Marines to evolve over the next few years?

Cerasani: Yeah, so from my perspective, you know, the NATAM program specifically, the network on the move, has had a small parabolic antenna inside their vehicle. And I think a lot of things are switching to a flat panel system. So electronically steer to raid, and they’re looking for multi-orbit and then frequency, you know, the spectrum. They want to operate on different bands, and that’s really what we offer. We have a KU and a KA terminal that are certified on different networks. Multiple LEO platforms, which is awesome, because no one else really does that. And I think that’s where it’s all going to, right? Because we need to stay connected, you know, as you maneuver the battle space.

Hill: And do you still have people— I’m just curious if you still have people asking like why multi-orbit or why single orbit? Like, do you still have people and how do you answer that question?

Cerasani: You know, I think it used to be a common question, but now it’s just kind of a standard practice, right? That’s great to hear.

Hill: That’s great to hear.

Cerasani: Yeah, Like you need to have resiliency in your network, right? So, we need some LEO, some GEO, some LTE. We need a little bit of everything just in case you’re going against a near-peer threat, and you know things happen on certain networks, and you have to switch over. And that’s what kind of makes us unique, right? Like you can generate a pace plan inside of our terminal, so your primary alternate, you know, networks and it’ll switch between them as you know something becomes compromised or it’s no longer connected, and it’ll just switch automatically. Awesome for the war fighter.

Hill: That’s great to hear. You’ve got this really cool Polaris vehicle on display, and on top of that, we have a CART mini. Can you talk about your new CART infrastructure and how that works with your network?

Cerasani: Yeah. So the CART mini KU we’re, you know, we can do multiple LEO networks, right? So, we can do one web or SpaceX network. Then GEO, it’ll do GEO and LTE, and it has an option for a modem hookup on the back, right? So, you can hook up an external third modem, which is awesome. Then we have our KA cart, which is our newest product. So that’ll be GEO and LEO and MEO as well for the Empower network, which makes it awesome. An automatic filler between the three. So, makes it really unique.

Hill: Yeah, that’s great. That’s great. And you know what are some of the next big steps here for Lite Coms in the next year? Are you just —what do your customers have to look forward to?

Cerasani: Yeah, so they’re looking forward to our CART combined or KUK cart combined, and really that’s what we’re focused on, right? So, give them the advantage of KUKA in one single platform is our next step.

Hill: That’s awesome. Well, George, thank you so much for explaining all this to me. It looks really cool. The booth looks great and we’re glad that you’re having a great show here.

This conversation was sponsored by Lite Coms

Fast Auto-Acquisition VSAT Systems for Combat Use

Key Takeaways

Fast Deployment: Fast auto-acquisition VSAT systems like the LITE SAT 1.3 reduce setup times to under 10 minutes, enhancing mission readiness for Specialist Riley in high-stakes environments.
Enhanced Mobility: Lightweight designs, such as the Lite Coms LITE SAT 1.3A weighing under 100 pounds, improve mobility and ease of deployment, crucial for operations in challenging terrains.
Reliable Performance: Lite Coms systems ensure continuous communication during critical operations, performing reliably in extreme conditions, from harsh weather to contested electromagnetic environments.

Introduction

In 2026, specialists face immense challenges in maintaining reliable communication in high-stakes military operations. Fast auto-acquisition VSAT systems are transforming this landscape by enabling swift deployment and robust performance in demanding environments. Lite Coms leads this technological advancement, offering cutting-edge solutions that address the unique challenges faced by military communications operators. Whether it’s in the unforgiving terrains of forward operating bases or on-the-move command units, Lite Coms ensures that warfighters can maintain mission-critical connectivity without delay.

1. The Need for Speed: Quick Deployment in Combat Zones

In combat zones where every second counts, the ability to establish reliable communication swiftly is paramount. Lite Coms’ VSAT systems, like the LITE SAT 1.3, feature auto-acquisition capabilities that shorten setup times to under 10 minutes. This rapid deployment ensures that you, Specialist Riley, can maintain operational readiness, supporting real-time mission operations without delay. Additionally, the intuitive interfaces of these systems reduce cognitive load, allowing you to concentrate on mission-critical tasks rather than wrestling with complex equipment.

2. Portability and Mobility: Lightweight Solutions for the Field

In your role as a communications specialist, mobility is crucial. The Lite Coms LITE SAT 1.3 designed with portability in mind, weighs under 100 pounds, enabling you to navigate diverse environments effortlessly. This lightweight system enhances your ability to move swiftly through challenging terrains without being encumbered by heavy equipment. Additionally, the LITE SAT 1.3 integrates seamlessly with existing communication infrastructures, reducing the need for multiple components and simplifying operations. These features ensure that you maintain operational readiness and mission success, regardless of location.

3. Reliability in Extreme Conditions: Performance You Can Trust

In the demanding environments you navigate, reliability is non-negotiable. Lite Coms’ systems are engineered to withstand the harshest conditions, ensuring mission-critical communication remains unbroken. Designed with durable construction, these systems perform consistently from scorching heat to freezing cold. Even in contested electromagnetic environments, you can rely on their robust performance to maintain continuous connectivity. Lite Coms’ field-proven technology has been rigorously tested, ensuring it meets and exceeds the operational demands of military missions. With Lite Coms, trust that your communications will endure, no matter the challenge.

4. User-Centric Design: Simplifying the Operator’s Experience

For communications operators, user-centric design is vital. Lite Coms’ systems feature intuitive interfaces, minimizing training time and reducing errors during high-pressure missions. The low-maintenance design lets you focus on mission-critical tasks, not equipment upkeep. Feedback from operators like you is integral, driving continuous improvements that enhance usability and reliability in the field.

Conclusion

Fast auto-acquisition VSAT systems from Lite Coms are transforming military communications by providing rapid deployment, portability, and reliable performance in the most demanding environments. These systems are not just tools but essential allies in ensuring mission success. Explore Lite Coms’ offerings to enhance your operational capabilities today.

FAQ

Q: What makes Lite Coms’ VSAT systems stand out for military use?
A: Lite Coms’ systems offer rapid auto-acquisition, lightweight design, and reliable performance in extreme conditions, making them ideal for military operations.

Q: How quickly can Lite Coms’ VSAT systems be deployed?
A: Systems like the Lite Sat 1000 can be deployed in under 10 minutes, significantly reducing setup times.

Q: Are these systems easy to use for operators with minimal training?
A: Yes, the intuitive interfaces and user-friendly design minimize the training required, allowing operators to focus on mission tasks.

Q: Can Lite Coms’ systems withstand harsh environmental conditions?
A: Absolutely. These systems are built to operate reliably in extreme weather and contested electromagnetic environments.

Q: How does Lite Coms incorporate user feedback into their products?
A: Lite Coms actively gathers feedback from field operators and uses it to refine and improve their systems, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of military users.

Multi-Orbit SATCOM: Designing Terminals for Integration, Usability, and Real-World Performance

Key Takeaways

In 2026, military officers evaluating satellite communication systems are increasingly focused on multi-orbit capability and real-world performance.

First, multi-orbit SATCOM—leveraging GEO, MEO, and LEO constellations—offers significant advantages in flexibility, resilience, and throughput, but also introduces new challenges in system design and operation.

Second, integration across terminals, modems, and network infrastructure is now critical to ensuring reliable performance and minimizing operational complexity.

Finally, operator usability and rapid deployment capabilities—such as Lite Coms’ Fast Auto-Acquire technology—play a key role in enabling mission success in remote and austere environments.

Introduction

In 2026, the landscape of military satellite communications continues to evolve as demand grows for faster, more resilient, and more flexible connectivity. For military officers responsible for communications, logistics, and acquisitions, ensuring uninterrupted command and control for forward-deployed personnel remains a top priority.

One of the most significant shifts driving this evolution is the adoption of multi-orbit SATCOM architectures. By leveraging multiple satellite constellations across GEO, MEO, and LEO, modern systems can deliver improved performance and redundancy. However, this increased capability also introduces new challenges around system integration, usability, and deployment.

This article explores how SATCOM terminals are evolving to support multi-orbit operations, with a focus on integration, operator experience, and real-world performance considerations.

1. Understanding Multi-Orbit & Constellation Services

Multi-orbit and constellation services are transforming military communications by enabling systems to operate across multiple satellite networks rather than relying on a single orbit.

Definition and Importance

Multi-orbit SATCOM systems leverage GEO, MEO, and LEO constellations to balance coverage, latency, and throughput. GEO satellites provide stable, wide-area coverage, while LEO constellations deliver lower latency and higher data speeds. Together, they create a more flexible and resilient communications architecture.

How It Changes SATCOM

Instead of a fixed, single-network approach, modern SATCOM systems must dynamically manage connectivity across multiple constellations. This allows operators to optimize performance based on mission needs and environmental conditions.

Operational Impact

Multi-orbit capability improves redundancy and enables continued operations in contested or degraded environments. However, it also increases complexity, requiring systems that can seamlessly manage network transitions and maintain reliable connectivity.

2. System Integration in Multi-Orbit Architectures

As SATCOM systems evolve, integration has become the defining factor in overall performance.

Modern terminals are no longer standalone hardware—they are part of a larger ecosystem that includes RF components, modem technologies, and network infrastructure. Effective multi-orbit operation depends on how well these elements work together.

Systems must integrate with modem technologies and network services from established providers such as Comtech, Viasat, and others. This coordination ensures that terminals can operate across multiple networks without requiring extensive manual configuration.

Poor integration can introduce operational risk, increasing setup time and making systems more difficult to use in the field. In contrast, well-integrated systems reduce complexity, improve reliability, and enable faster deployment.

3. Operator Experience and System Usability

While performance specifications are important, operator experience is often the determining factor in real-world success.

Multi-orbit systems introduce additional complexity, including multiple network options, configuration parameters, and operational workflows. Without thoughtful design, this complexity can slow deployment and increase the likelihood of errors.

Modern SATCOM systems must prioritize usability through centralized control interfaces and intuitive GUIs. By simplifying system management, operators can establish connectivity more quickly and maintain it more effectively in dynamic environments.

Solutions that reduce training requirements and streamline operation provide a significant advantage in mission-critical scenarios.

4. Multi-Orbit Performance in Real-World Conditions

Understanding the performance characteristics of different orbits is essential to evaluating multi-orbit SATCOM systems.

LEO constellations offer low latency and high throughput, making them well-suited for real-time applications. GEO satellites, on the other hand, provide stable coverage over large geographic areas. Multi-orbit systems combine these strengths to deliver more adaptable communication capabilities.

However, real-world performance depends on more than just access to multiple networks. Systems must manage handoffs between satellites, maintain link stability, and operate effectively in challenging environments.

Factors such as terrain, weather, and mobility all impact performance, making system design and field validation critical to ensuring reliable operation.

5. Design Tradeoffs in Multi-Orbit SATCOM Systems

Designing effective multi-orbit SATCOM systems requires balancing competing priorities.

Portability vs. Performance

Smaller, more portable systems enable rapid deployment but may limit throughput. Larger systems offer higher capacity but require more logistical support.

SWaP vs. Capability

Reducing size, weight, and power improves mobility, but can constrain system performance and integration options.

Mobility vs. Stability

Systems designed for communications-on-the-move must balance speed and flexibility with consistent connectivity.

Simplicity vs. Flexibility

Highly configurable systems provide more options but can increase operator burden without well-designed interfaces.

Understanding these tradeoffs is essential for selecting systems that align with mission requirements.

6. Addressing Operational Challenges

Military operators face a range of challenges when deploying SATCOM systems in demanding environments.

Interoperability remains a critical requirement. Systems must integrate with existing military networks, legacy infrastructure, and allied equipment while meeting strict technical specifications.

Rapid deployment is equally important. Operators need systems that can be set up quickly with minimal training, particularly in high-stakes scenarios where time is critical.

Reliability in austere environments is another key factor. Systems must perform consistently in extreme conditions without relying on existing infrastructure, ensuring continuous communication in remote locations.

7. Strategic Procurement Considerations

Procurement decisions for SATCOM systems extend beyond performance specifications.

Lifecycle support is a major consideration, as systems are expected to operate over long deployment periods. This requires reliable access to spare parts, training, and ongoing technical support.

Compliance and certification are also essential. Systems must meet NSA, DoD, and interoperability standards to ensure secure and effective operation.

Finally, reducing integration risk is becoming a top priority. Systems that simplify integration into existing architectures are more likely to be successfully deployed and sustained over time.

Conclusion

Multi-orbit SATCOM is reshaping how communication systems are designed and deployed across military operations. While it offers significant advantages in performance and flexibility, it also introduces new challenges that must be addressed through thoughtful system design.

Success in modern SATCOM environments depends on integration, usability, and real-world performance—not just individual component capabilities. Systems that simplify operation, reduce complexity, and support seamless multi-orbit connectivity will be best positioned to meet the demands of today’s missions.

Lite Coms continues to focus on these principles, developing solutions that enable rapid deployment, reliable performance, and effective integration across modern SATCOM architectures.

FAQ

Q: What is multi-orbit SATCOM?
A: Multi-orbit SATCOM refers to systems that operate across multiple satellite constellations—such as GEO, MEO, and LEO—to optimize performance, resilience, and flexibility.

Q: Why is multi-orbit important for military communications?
A: It improves redundancy, reduces latency, and enables more reliable connectivity in dynamic and contested environments.

Q: What are the biggest challenges with multi-orbit systems?
A: Integration, network switching, and operational complexity are the primary challenges that must be addressed through system design.

Q: How do SATCOM systems integrate with modems and networks?
A: Through coordinated system architecture that ensures seamless communication between terminal hardware, modem technologies, and network infrastructure.

Q: What should buyers prioritize when evaluating SATCOM systems?
A: Key considerations include integration, usability, interoperability, performance, and long-term support—not just raw technical specifications.

The End of the VSAT Parts Bin: Why Tactical SATCOM Is Moving Toward Integrated Systems

As tactical satellite communications continue to evolve, the conversation is shifting beyond antenna performance alone. Today’s military and government users increasingly require complete, integrated communications architectures that simplify deployment, reduce complexity, and improve operational readiness.

In a featured article published by SatNews, Lite Coms explores how modern tactical VSAT systems are moving away from traditional “parts bin” deployments—where antennas, modems, and control software are sourced separately—and toward unified platforms designed to operate as a single system.

*Lite Coms parabolic VSAT terminal (left) and electronically steerable flat-panel terminal (right).*

Feature	Parabolic VSAT	ESA VSAT
Signal acquisition	Motorized auto-acquire	Electronic beam steering
Deployment time	Minutes	Near-instant
Mobility	Quick halt (COTP)	Full COTM capable
Constellation support	GEO, MEO, HEO	LEO, GEO, MEO
Throughput	High	Moderate to high
Best suited for	Expeditionary backhaul, fixed-site C2	Tactical vehicles, mobile command, rapid deployment

The article examines several key trends shaping the future of tactical SATCOM, including:

Why integrated system architectures are replacing standalone hardware approaches.
The mission-dependent roles of parabolic and electronically steerable (ESA) terminals.
How Tactical Modem Assemblies (TMAs) reduce deployment time, cabling, and potential points of failure.
The benefits of unified operator interfaces that simplify training, configuration, and system management.
Why future defense procurements are increasingly evaluating complete communications architectures rather than individual components.

As defense missions become more dynamic, operators need communications solutions that are faster to deploy, easier to manage, and built to perform reliably in demanding environments. Integration is becoming a key differentiator in meeting those requirements.

Read the full SatNews article to explore how integrated tactical SATCOM architectures are shaping the future of deployable communications.

Lite Coms Leaders Discuss the Future of Multi-Orbit Tactical VSAT

As military communications continue to evolve, multi-orbit connectivity is becoming a critical capability for defense and government organizations. In an exclusive interview with Via Satellite, Lite Coms U.S. Army Sales Manager Gabrielle D’Amico and Vice President of Operations and Programs Andrew Colaruotolo discuss the company’s approach to developing next-generation tactical SATCOM solutions.

The interview explores Lite Coms’ vision for multi-orbit, multi-band communications and how the company is preparing customers for the future of military connectivity. Topics include advancements in tactical VSAT technology, support for emerging U.S. Army requirements, investments in American manufacturing, and ongoing innovation across Lite Coms’ product portfolio.

Readers will also learn more about Lite Coms’ commitment to designing rapidly deployable communications systems that support mission success while simplifying operations for users in the field. The conversation highlights the company’s continued focus on engineering innovation, operational readiness, and delivering flexible communications solutions that can adapt to evolving mission requirements.

Whether you’re interested in multi-orbit SATCOM, tactical communications, or the future of military networking, this interview provides valuable insight into where the industry is headed and how Lite Coms is helping shape that future.

Read the full interview on Via Satellite to hear directly from Gabrielle D’Amico and Andrew Colaruotolo about the technologies and strategies driving the next generation of tactical VSAT.

Inside Lite Coms at SATELLITE 2026: Full Booth Walkthrough

SATELLITE 2026 was a great opportunity to connect with partners, customers, and the broader SATCOM community.

At the Lite Coms booth, we showcased a range of mission-ready communication solutions designed for defense, government, and tactical environments.

In the video below, Andrew (VP of Operations & Programs) walks through the systems we brought to the show and how they support real-world operations.

Click here to watch

What We Showcased at SATELLITE 2026:

Rapid deployment SATCOM systems
Multi-orbit connectivity (LEO + GEO)
Rugged, mission-ready designs
High-throughput communications in contested environments

Want to learn more about Lite Coms solutions?
Visit www.litecoms.com/products.

Lite Coms Hurricane Rugged Testing: Built for Real-World Conditions

In mission-critical environments, communications equipment isn’t just expected to perform—it’s expected to endure. From harsh terrain to unpredictable weather and constant movement, failure is not an option.

That’s why the Hurricane was engineered with durability at its core.

In this video, we put the Hurricane through a series of rugged tests to demonstrate how it performs under stress.

Engineered for the Demands of the Field

The Hurricane is designed for operations where conditions are unpredictable and environments are unforgiving. Whether deployed on vehicles, used in remote locations, or exposed to the elements, it must maintain reliable performance.

Testing the Limits: What We Put It Through

To validate its rugged design, the Hurricane underwent a range of tests that show it’s durability.

Impact Testing

We subjected the unit to controlled drops to evaluate its structural integrity under sudden impact. This helps ensure the system can withstand the kind of handling and movement common in field deployments.

Connector Durability Testing

Connections are often a point of failure in harsh environments. We tested the robustness of the Hurricane’s connectors under stress to confirm long-term reliability.

Water Exposure Testing

From rain to accidental submersion, exposure to water is unavoidable in many operational settings.

Why This Matters

For defense, government, and remote operations, communications systems must work every time—regardless of conditions.

Rugged testing like this ensures:

Reduced risk of equipment failure in the field
Greater operational confidence
Lower maintenance and downtime
Reliable connectivity when it matters most

Built for Mission-Critical Connectivity

The Hurricane isn’t just built to perform in ideal conditions—it’s built for the environments where other systems fail.

🔗 Learn More

Interested in learning more about the Hurricane and how it can support your operations?

👉 www.litecoms.com/hurricane

Reliable VSAT Systems for NGC2-Enabled Defense Missions

Key Takeaways

– The Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) initiative is transforming battlefield decision-making through a unified, software-driven architecture.
– Lite Coms portable VSAT systems enable reliable, low-latency connectivity required to support NGC2 environments.
– Designed for rapid deployment, interoperability, and security compliance, these systems integrate seamlessly into modern C2 ecosystems.
– Proven in austere environments, Lite Coms solutions ensure continuous communications at the tactical edge.
– Comprehensive lifecycle support helps reduce total cost of ownership and simplifies long-term deployment.

Enabling NGC2 at the Tactical Edge with Lite Coms

Lite Coms’ portable VSAT systems—including the CART, CART Mini, Hurricane, and Lite Sat 1.3—are purpose-built to deliver resilient communications that align with NGC2 requirements.

These systems act as the connectivity backbone that allows distributed forces to:

– Access and share real-time data
– Maintain situational awareness
– Synchronize operations across domains

1. Reliable Connectivity in Contested and Remote Environments

Why it matters for NGC2: Data is only useful if it can move—reliably and continuously.

Lite Coms systems are engineered to perform in:

– Extreme weather conditions
– Rugged terrain
– Infrastructure-denied environments

Field-proven across forward operating bases and mobile missions, these systems ensure that NGC2-enabled platforms remain connected when it matters most..

2. Built for Interoperability with Modern C2 Architectures

Why it matters for NGC2: Open architecture demands flexible, standards-based connectivity.

Lite Coms systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with:

– Existing Command and Control (C2) frameworks
– Coalition and allied networks
– Hybrid communication stacks (SATCOM + LTE/5G)

With compliance aligned to DoD and NSA standards (including FIPS and ITAR), these systems support secure data transport across the NGC2 ecosystem..

3. Rapid Deployment for Time-Sensitive Operations

Why it matters for NGC2: Speed is a competitive advantage.

Lite Coms portable VSAT systems are designed for:

– Quick setup with minimal training
– Vehicle-mounted or man-portable configurations
– Fast network acquisition and link establishment

This enables units to establish communications quickly, supporting the real-time decision cycles central to NGC2.

4. Scalable Support for Distributed Operations

Why it matters for NGC2: Future operations are decentralized and data-driven.

Lite Coms solutions support:

– Distributed teams across multiple locations
– Scalable deployments from small units to large operations
– Long-term sustainment with lifecycle support and training

This ensures that connectivity infrastructure evolves alongside NGC2 capabilities.

Conclusion

NGC2 represents a fundamental shift in how the U.S. Army approaches command and control—prioritizing speed, integration, and data-driven decision-making.

However, these capabilities depend on one critical factor: reliable, resilient connectivity.

Lite Coms portable VSAT systems provide the infrastructure needed to support NGC2 environments—delivering secure, high-performance communications in the most demanding operational conditions.

For defense organizations looking to operationalize NGC2 concepts, Lite Coms offers proven, mission-ready solutions built for the modern battlefield.

FAQ

Q1: What is NGC2?
A1: NGC2 (Next Generation Command and Control) is a modernization initiative focused on improving battlefield decision-making through a unified, software-driven architecture that integrates data across systems.

Q2: Is NGC2 a product or a system?
A2: No. NGC2 is not a single product—it is a technology framework and architecture that relies on multiple integrated systems, including communications infrastructure.

Q3: Why is satellite communication important for NGC2?
A3: NGC2 requires real-time data sharing across dispersed units. Satellite communications provide reliable, beyond-line-of-sight connectivity, especially in remote or contested environments..

Q4: What types of missions benefit from portable VSAT systems?
A4: Portable VSAT systems are ideal for:

– Forward-deployed units
– Special operations
– Disaster response
– Mobile command posts

Lite Coms Executives Talk Multi-Orbit Innovation and the Future of Tactical VSAT

Lite Coms U.S. Army Sales Manager Gabrielle D’Amico and Vice President of Operations and Programs Andrew Colaruotolo talk to the company’s multi-orbit, multi-band tech roadmap and recent investments in production.March 17th, 2026

In less than seven years of operation, Lite Coms has established itself as a large player in the U.S. military VSAT market, with nearly 1,000 VSAT terminals deployed. At the core of its engineering philosophy is multi-orbit, constellation-agnostic connectivity. Lite Coms puts customer requirements at the center of its product design, and designs VSAT terminals to be deployed in the field within minutes.

Via Satellite interviewed Lite Coms U.S. Army Sales Manager Gabrielle D’Amico and Vice President of Operations and Programs Andrew Colaruotolo about the company’s multi-orbit, multi-band tech roadmap, how it’s positioned for the U.S. Army’s Next-Generation Command and Control (NGC2) initiative, and its investments in production capabilities.

VIA SATELLITE: AS a VSAT manufacturer for militaries around the world, could you tell me about the range of products that Lite Coms offers? How many VSATs has the company deployed?

D’Amico: Lite Coms offers the industry’s most comprehensive portfolio of tactical satcom terminals from a single manufacturer. Our product range spans from high-gain, flyaway VSAT and vehicular comms-on-the-quick-halt systems, to cutting edge ESAs, electronically steered antennas, based on comms-on-the-move (COTM) solutions. We are recognized as primary innovators in the VSAT and ESA marketplace. We maintain a competitive advantage by reinvesting a significantly higher percentage of revenue into satcom R&D, higher than our peers. That really sets us apart. Today we are approaching 1,000 tactical terminals deployed worldwide, supporting mission critical connectivity for global defenses.

VIA SATELLITE: What is your strategy for mult-orbit products? How do you support connectivity across Geostationary Orbit (GEO), Low-Earth Orbit (LEO), and Medium-Earth Orbit (MEO)?

Placeholder alt text — Lite Coms U.S. Army Sales Manager Gabrielle D’Amico

D’Amico: That’s our bread and butter. Multi-orbit, constellation-agnostic connectivity has been our core engineering philosophy since our inception seven years ago. Our LiteSat 2.2 and LiteSat 1.3 are the pioneering systems of Lite Coms. These are the first two Wideband Global Satcom (WGS)-certified terminals to also achieve the SES O3b mPOWER MEO certification. The LiteSat 2.2 was certified in 2021 and has been operational across GEO and MEO networks for years. Our ESA product line also supports seamless transition between GEO and LEO constellations and has been in active production since 2022. Looking ahead, we’re ready to disrupt the market once more in 2026 with our Ku/Ka, dual-band, dual-beam, GEO/LEO hybrid terminal, which is a comms-on-the-move product.

VIA SATELLITE: Can you tell me more about the upcoming hybrid terminal?

Colaruotolo: When we started Lite Coms, we had a mission to always offer multi-orbit terminals. Every product that we delivered to our forces had the capability to operate on multiple constellations. We started in parabolic antennas. In order to stay relevant and service the LEO orbit specifically, we knew that we needed to introduce ESA products. We started with a Ku-band ESA, because the SpaceX network that was launched first was Ku-band, and OneWeb coming online around the same time was also Ku-band. Looking into the future, we have Amazon Leo and other LEO constellations that are all Ka-based. The natural progression of things is to offer Ka-band systems as those networks reach their initial and full operating capacity over the next year or so.

Our philosophy is multi orbit, multi constellation, so once there are Ku- and Ka-band constellations both up in the sky, we want to offer a product that can hit both of those networks. Our goal is to offer a Ku/Ka-band, dual-beam, simultaneous terminal so that you can access many, many networks in one terminal. I feel like it is an earth-shaking innovation that our competitors are trying, and no one’s done it. And we’ve demonstrated it on-the-air. No one else is doing it. People are trying — but no one’s accomplished it.

VIA SATELLITE: Lite Coms has talked about the concept of an asymmetric approach to MEO. Can you explain this concept and why it’s beneficial?

Colaruotolo: Our LiteSat 2.2A was the first terminal to be certified for both WGS and O3b classic, and LiteSat 1.3A was the first WGS and mPOWER certified terminal. What we’re hearing from our customers is that carrying two large antennas is a burden, both financially and logistically. With MEO offering very high data to rates and very low latency, it’s a capability that can’t be ignored. In order for them to use that capability and not overburden themselves, they want to take an asymmetric approach.

If you have a 2.2, you could add a 1.3 and still do a make-before-break link. Instead of having two of the same size antennas track those satellites and hand them off, you would have one large one and one smaller one. You can do that same handoff and get that high throughput, low latency link, but you don’t have to use two giant antennas. It’s a one-of-a-kind solution that we have tested and proven as a proof of concept. We’re currently working with our customers and network providers to productize this solution.

VIA SATELLITE: Lite Coms has a focus on rapid deployability. From the warfighter’s perspective — why does that agility matter, and how does it shape decisions that the company makes in terms of product design?

D’Amico: In high pressure, contested environments, speed and survivability is a metric. Our design philosophy is centered on the expeditionary warfighter. We strive for customer delight by ensuring a soldier can achieve on-air status in minutes. We prioritize simplicity in human-machine interface. Every product undergoes “zero training” testing, in which individuals with no technical background, myself included, must assemble the terminal without a manual. The focus on technical agility ensures that satcom is a force-multiplier, not a logistical burden. We make it extremely user friendly, so that it’s fail-safe. I am not an engineer, I didn’t come from that background, and I can put together a LiteSat 1.3M in under 10 minutes and get it on-air.

VIA SATELLITE: LiteComs recently expanded its line of tactical satellite modems. Can you talk a little bit about this expansion and what capabilities you’ve added?

Colaruotolo: We treat our industry partnerships as a vital component to our satcom ecosystem. By collaborating with the leading modem of vendors, we stay ahead of the emerging and protected waveforms and the digital IF developments that are coming online in the next year. We acquire early prototypes for our engineers to do the mechanical packaging and do the software interfaces. When iDirect or Comtech comes out with a new modem, we want to make sure that we get those into our engineers’ hands before the general public release. This strategy has allowed Lite Coms to deliver the first fully integrated terminals for advanced waveforms on Geo, MEO, and LEO, and provides our end users with hardware that’s future proof. Our goal is to continuously deliver the latest and greatest technology and latest greatest hardware and software platforms to our end users.

VIA SATELLITE: So Lite Coms works with the waveform and modem vendors as well as satellite operators, collaborating across the value chain?

Colaruotolo: Yes, and it’s kind of an interesting business model. We’re not technology creators — we’re technology innovators. We take technology that’s built in labs and bridge the gap to our customers so that they can have the best emerging technology. But we also work to put it in the hands of 18 to 20-year-old users so that it’s field ready and they can actually use it.

D’Amico: Our design and our innovations are not because we think of it — it’s because our customers think of it. Our products are really designed by our customers and their feedback. Every iteration is because of what they have told us.

VIA SATELLITE: Along that line of being customer-centric, what are some of the shifts you’re seeing in what military customers want from satellite ground technology providers?

D’Amico: There have been a lot of shifts lately. Modern military customers are demanding multi-constellation resilience, rapid setup, and long-term reliability. There is a major shift toward PACE (primary, alternate, contingency and emergency) planning that requires terminals to switch orbits instantly. At Lite Coms, we meet this demand by offering extended warranties that reflect our hardware’s reliability. We also offer Lite Link, a super simplified graphical user interface (GUI) that’s used across all of our products. We’ve also optimized our supply chain to provide off-the-shelf delivery, ensuring readiness is never delayed by manufacturing backlogs.

VIA SATELLITE: How do you see Lite Coms supporting the U.S. Army’s Next-Generation Command and Control (NGC2) modernization effort?

D’Amico: The NGC2 modernization goals align perfectly with our modular, open systems approach. Lite Coms supports the Army’s move toward a data-centric, cloud-native architecture by providing the high-bandwidth, low latency transport layer required for cloud edge computing. Our strategy of rapid technology injection ensures that the Army can upgrade capabilities like moving from GEO to LEO without replacing the entire terminal, offering a high, affordable, and scalable path to the Joint All Domain Command and Control iIntegration. There are so many areas where Lite Coms fits into the NGC2 effort.

Colaruotolo: NGC2 is changing the acquisition strategy so that instead of having multiple programs of records that last for 10 to 20 years, there will be a technology refresh every five years. By the time the Army gets to the end of their fielding, they can start fielding the next technology. That aligns with how Lite Coms was built. In 2018, we started a company that was bringing new technology to the field without programs of record. We always say that we’re a commercial company that just happens to sell to the government, not necessarily a government contractor. Lite Coms really fits the NGC2 strategy for modernization in that way, of not having programs of record and being a commercial company. We’re refreshing; we’re obsoleting our own products every couple of years, which is exactly what the Army wants to do.

VIA SATELLITE: Is there anything you would like to see change in terms of how the Army fields capabilities?

Colaruotolo: We need to transform the way that the government trains and fields. We can build antennas all day, but if the military can’t field it at that pace, then what’s the point of building it at that pace? We have to innovate on the training and the support model. We’ve partnered with a number of companies that have made generative models that teach soldiers how to put the equipment together and how to get it on air, that they can access via their cell phone and can dramatically increase the pace at which equipment is fielded. Solving the other side of the problem is to actually get it into the user’s hands and make sure that they’re using it properly. We want to help create that groundswell. At the moment, the government is saying it will reform acquisition, but we also need to reform logistics.

VIA SATELLITE: Last year, Lite Coms added a new production facility in New York. How are you seeing demand grow, and how does the new facility help meet that demand?

Colaruotolo: Lite Coms has maintained exponential growth for the entire time that we’ve been in business. We have doubled or tripled in size, annually. Our new advanced manufacturing facility called our Satcom Campus in Victor, New York, was a strategic necessity to support this demand. Our facility enables vertical integration. It allows us to go from design to delivery at unprecedented speeds. In just the last seven months, we have successfully delivered over $100 million in revenue. We’re proving our ability to scale for large Army program of record requirements, and also to shift dynamically as demand shifts. As we see a surge in demand for ESA terminals or parabolic antennas, we can change our factory very quickly to manage those surges and deliver quickly.

D’Amico: Everybody wants things yesterday. Patience is a thing of the past. People worry about capacity and how many terminals can you produce per week — it’s not a problem for us. Our facility is ready for ramp up or ramp down. We’re ready for the NGC2 production.

VIA SATELLITE: Looking three to five years out, where do you see the biggest growth opportunities?

Colaruotolo: We believe that growth will be driven by the massive expansion of the LEO megaconstellations and also the refresh of the traditional parabolic antennas in order to support, you know, new networks, and specifically the Ka-band high throughput satellites (HTS) and the MEO orbits. So we’re seeing significant opportunities in providing resilient PNT and multi-domain operation support for both domestic and international defense partners.

In our first year business, we fielded six systems. This year, we’ll have almost 1,000 antennas in the field. We’ve been ramping up very, very quickly and been able to sustain that exponential growth over nearly seven years in business. We’ve been able to handle that growth and increase our market share.

VIA SATELLITE: In a crowded market, how does Lite Coms differentiate itself from other VSAT providers?

Colaruotolo: At Lite Coms, we are the VSAT innovators. Our competitors are really relying on legacy logistical support for 10-year old tech. We weren’t even around 10 years ago, so all of our equipment is innovative. We believe that the warfighter deserves the best equipment that is available today. We are developing R&D on our own budget, obsoleting our own product, creating new products, and delivering them as a commercial product. We’re not on a trajectory with government programs — we’re on a trajectory with technology.

We’re also offering extended warranties. We’re seeing huge groundswells where our customers are not looking for one- or two-year warranties. They’re looking for much longer, five-year warranties. We’re removing the risk of modernization so that they have support all the way through. At Lite Coms, we don’t just sell the terminals, we provide the lifeline for the mission. Our tagline is, “Your mission is our motivation.”

D’Amico: Our product is like the “Chipotle of satcom.” You can plug and play, whatever modem, whatever band, whatever packout; we customize it to whatever the mission dictates.

VIA SATELLITE: We are a few weeks out from SATELLITE x GovMilSpace. What will Lite Coms’ focus be at the show?

Colaruotolo: Number one, we’re introducing our Ka-band ESA and showing a prototype. That will be poised for Amazon Leo and the Space Development Agency network. We’re also targeting MEO with that terminal as well.

We also have a couple of new tactical modem assemblies that we’re introducing at the SATShow. Some circulating around MEO, some around GEO. We’ll also have our MRZR vehicle platform with our COTM antennas on it, as well as our X/Y full motion antenna.

SOF Week

📅May 18th – May 21st, 2026

📍Tampa Florida