Reliable Robotics is working on a safety-critical datalink system designed to help uncrewed aircraft operate within existing airport and air traffic control systems. The Mountain View, California-based company said its C2 Link System is being developed through industry collaboration, standards work and flight testing. The system is designed to connect remotely piloted aircraft with remote pilots, air traffic control and other aircraft, while also supporting traffic awareness, cooperative procedures and automated separation.
Reliable Robotics said its automated Cessna C208B uncrewed aircraft system is intended to operate in all classes of airspace under Instrument Flight Rules. Under that model, a remote pilot would remain responsible for the aircraft’s safety and for following clearances and instructions from air traffic control.
The company said the C2 Link System can work across multiple communications networks. It is being developed to comply with Federal Aviation Administration standards for Control and Non-Payload Communications links, which handle command and control functions rather than mission payload data.
Reliable Robotics said its satellite communications terminals are compatible with Iridium and Viasat networks. The terminals are intended to support multiple datalinks for availability, continuity, low latency and integrity. The company is also working with uAvionix to add air-to-ground datalinks for operations in areas such as airport terminals, where low-latency communications are needed.
“Uncrewed aircraft don’t need new infrastructure at airports to fly – the proliferation of satellite-based connectivity through the market creates an environment where UAS can communicate and safely integrate into the NAS,” said Brandon Suarez, vice president of uncrewed aircraft systems integration at Reliable Robotics. “With our C2 System, Reliable will be able to bring more aviation – and safer aviation – into communities without requiring additional infrastructure.”
Reliable Robotics said the system is being built to meet requirements in RTCA DO-377B. The company is contributing operational input to two RTCA working groups developing consensus standards for C2 link systems and is working with the FAA on efforts to show that the system can connect with existing FAA voice communications systems.
The company said related work includes flight simulation activities and flight testing of its automated Cessna 208B Caravan, including a contract with NASA for testing around airport environments. Reliable Robotics also said its submission to the Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing and Advanced Air Mobility Integration Pilot Program includes planned flight testing in rural and regional communities within the next two years.
