The ACS is a key component of the UK Home Office’s Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme (ESMCP). The ESMCP will deliver the Emergency Services Network (ESN), an LTE-based fully integrated, mission critical voice and broadband data service. ESN will replace the current Airwave TETRA radio system.

The airborne component of the ACS Technical Demonstrator Program (TDP) consisted of a bespoke aircraft antenna array, and a customized airborne LTE radio communications and test system. This was integrated into a QinetiQ Agusta A109 helicopter, which was flown on numerous flight test profiles whilst operating on the ground-test network.

A delegation from the UK Home Office, along with members of the Emergency Services, including Wiltshire Air Ambulance, visited Ministry of Defence Boscombe Down in July to see the test system in action. Further testing and assurance of the ACS will continue during the development of the system over the next 12 to 15 months, with operational acceptance and installation to follow. Despite the complexity of the system and stringent safety and airworthiness requirements, the TDP commenced just nine months after Cobham was awarded the contract to develop the ESN ACS.

Geoff Clarkson, Chief Engineer for the QinetiQ A2G program, said: “We’re delighted to have made such significant progress in support of the development and assurance of a system that will truly transform the efficiency and effectiveness of the UK Emergency Services air-to-ground communications.

“As part of our mission-led innovation approach we have been able to work closely with the team at Cobham to create the test solution, and then integrate and evaluate the technology quickly and safely.”

Cobham’s Vice President, Aerospace Systems, Kevin Dunne, added: “As a demonstration of our commitment to the program and management of risk through early testing, Cobham and our trusted partner QinetiQ implemented the TDP. The program has so far validated that the key concepts of the ACS project are sound, including Kodiak integration and air-to-ground network performance. Working in close collaboration with a progressive and like-minded partner has now enabled us to make the first ever 4G LTE air-to-ground network call.”