Session 2.7f Update: Architecting Sovereign Resilience: Integrating Multi-band, Multi-orbit SATCOM for the Contested Indo-Pacific
Tracks
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| Wednesday, November 18, 2026 |
| 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM |
| Swan Room |
Presentation Outline
As the Australian Department of Defence pivots toward a more resilient and distributed satellite communications (SATCOM) architecture, the integration of multi-orbit capabilities has become a strategic imperative. This paper explores the advantages of a hybrid ecosystem that synthesizes high-capacity, anti-jam capable Geostationary (GEO) assets, such as Viasat-3, with low-latency, government optimised Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations like Telesat Lightspeed. By leveraging these orbits, the ADF can ensure secure, continuous, high-bandwidth connectivity that is resistant to single-point-of-failure vulnerabilities.
New generation sovereign capability can be delivered by deploying mini-GEO platforms leveraging the Protected Tactical SATCOM-Global (PTS-G) system. These manoeuvrable satellites provide anti-jam protection through the Protected Tactical Waveform (PTW), ensuring that command and control (C2) remains viable even in contested electronic warfare environments. Furthermore, this paper examines the evolution of narrowband communications for the tactical edge. By utilising Integrated Waveform over LTAC, the ADF can augment UHF services with software-defined voice and data capabilities. This approach enables high-mobility users to maintain push-to-talk connectivity across a commercial L-band constellation. Together, UHF and LTAC form a cohesive, multi-layered SATCOM shield, providing the most mobile Australian warfighter with the information superiority required for modern multi-domain operations.
Topics Covered:
1. Multi-Orbit Synergy: Optimizing throughput and latency by bridging Viasat-3 (GEO) and Telesat Lightspeed (LEO).
2. Resilient Mini-GEOs: The role of PTS-G in providing scalable, anti-jam tactical communications.
3. Tactical Waveform Evolution: Enhancing legacy UHF with Integrated Waveform over LTAC for enhanced edge connectivity.
4. Sovereign Integration: Aligning commercial innovation with Australian Defence requirements for mission success.
Speaker
Mr Todd McDonell
President
Viasat International Government
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Biography
Todd McDonell joined Inmarsat in May 2013 as Vice President of Global Government Solutions. He took up the position of President, Global Government business unit for Inmarsat in late 2018, where he steered the business to a double digit YOY growth before the business was acquired by Viasat in June 2023. Todd is currently the President of the International Government business area, responsible for managing government business outside of the United States and encompassing both the legacy Inmarsat and Viasat operations in these geographies.
An early stint running operational support for the Australian Navy’s submarine communications systems provided an education in military communications and satellite communications systems. Following his naval career Todd & a number of other former Australian defence personnel created a company called TC Communications focused on the design, delivery, and support of satellite communications systems. Todd became CEO of the TC business in 2000 and grew the business into one of the preeminent Inmarsat partners. Inmarsat acquired the company in May 2013 and integrated it into the Inmarsat Global Government business unit. Todd holds qualifications in communications engineering, business and computer science and also holds a commercial pilots licence.
An early stint running operational support for the Australian Navy’s submarine communications systems provided an education in military communications and satellite communications systems. Following his naval career Todd & a number of other former Australian defence personnel created a company called TC Communications focused on the design, delivery, and support of satellite communications systems. Todd became CEO of the TC business in 2000 and grew the business into one of the preeminent Inmarsat partners. Inmarsat acquired the company in May 2013 and integrated it into the Inmarsat Global Government business unit. Todd holds qualifications in communications engineering, business and computer science and also holds a commercial pilots licence.
