KuKa 8

Kymeta Corporation has revealed specifications for its KuKa 8 Series, a new multi-band, multi-orbit satellite communications antenna designed for defense users, with prototype deliveries expected to begin in mid-2026. The system is designed to enable continuous connectivity across multiple satellite constellations and orbital layers. The KuKa 8 Series is described as an electronically steered, flat-panel antenna capable of operating across both Ku and Ka frequency bands within a single aperture. According to the company, the system supports simultaneous connections across multiple satellite constellations and enables switching between networks spanning geostationary (GEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), low Earth orbit (LEO), and highly elliptical orbit (HEO). As noted by the company, the terminal is intended to replace configurations that typically require multiple antennas to achieve similar functionality. The system integrates multi-band and multi-orbit capabilities into a single unit, reducing the need for separate hardware. The terminal reduces antenna footprint by approximately 44% compared to side-by-side multi-antenna configurations. The unit has a weight of about 41 pounds (18.6 kg) and dimensions of roughly 90 cm by 90 cm with a height of 10 cm, allowing installation on platforms with limited space. The system supports full-duplex, multi-beam operations, enabling two active links simultaneously. This allows concurrent transmit and receive functions and routing of mission data across different networks in real time. The antenna is also designed for communications-on-the-move (COTM), using electronic beam steering to maintain connectivity on moving platforms, including ground vehicles and maritime systems. The system’s architecture is software-defined, allowing updates and reconfiguration through open standards. In a statement, Kymeta Chief Scientist Ryan Stevenson said: “The number one priority for any connectivity customer is coverage - and coverage is infinitely more stable and secure with the proliferated network access provided by our KuKa 8 series terminal. This is a step-change in capability.” He added: “Where customers previously had to integrate multiple terminals to access different networks, let alone at the same time, the Kymeta KuKa 8 Series delivers that capability in a single system, reducing antenna footprint by around 44% while significantly improving SWaP.” The company also highlighted features intended to support operations in contested environments, including narrow electronically steered beams and dynamic beam control to reduce the probability of detection and mitigate jamming. The system is designed with a low thermal signature and includes software-defined networking capabilities for adaptive routing and upgrades. Electronically steered antennas use phased-array or metamaterial surfaces to direct signals without moving parts. This allows rapid switching between satellites and enables simultaneous connections across different networks, which is critical for maintaining communications when one link is disrupted. The KuKa 8 Series is also designed to support Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) concepts by maintaining connectivity between sensors, command nodes, and strike assets across multiple domains. The system’s multi-constellation approach aligns with current military efforts to diversify communications pathways and reduce vulnerability to single-point failures. The development follows Kymeta’s earlier KuKa technology announcement in June 2025. The company said it plans to deliver initial prototypes to key customers in the United States and allied defense sectors starting in mid-2026, with a goal of reaching commercial availability by 2027.

KuKa 8

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KuKa 8

Kymeta reveals KuKa 8 Series multi-orbit SATCOM antenna

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