EM Solutions, the Brisbane, Australia-based technology developer of innovative microwave and on-the-move radio and satellite products, has been awarded a AUD$ 6.5M contract by global prime contractor Thales for the supply of satellite radio systems to support a major connectivity project.

EM Solutions’ ability to make timely modifications to their commercial off-the-shelf products to suit Thales’ specific customer requirements was a key factor in determining the contract award. In 2016 a framework agreement was signed between the two companies to streamline ordering, and in 2018, EM Solutions’ work was again recognised when they took out Thales Australia’s Supplier of the Year award for Export Achievement.

EM Solutions Cobra M2 Maritime Satcom Terminal has successfully completed the WGS testing and certification process and been notified by the certification authority that the terminals are now able to operate at Ka-Band on the WGS Satellite Network. The testing phases of the certification process were completed by the Australian Certification Authority within the Satcom Systems Program Office.

Thales and EM Solutions have been collaborating through the work of the Thales Global Supply Chain team. Anne Munro, who heads Thales’ GSC team, said that “Thales has built trust with EM Solutions over an extended period and it is as a result of good communications and its proven track record that Thales has the confidence in EM Solutions to deliver”

For EM Solutions, the success in winning export business through the Global Supply Chain program has meant an expansion of its test and assembly capacity. Dr. Rowan Gilmore, CEO, said “Because of this business, EM Solutions has expanded its capacity, purchased additional equipment and hired new staff to meet delivery requirements. We are delighted to extend our near-decade long track record in working with Thales globally”.

Similar products to those supplied are also in use in several of EM Solutions’ own on-the-move satellite terminals for a range of land and maritime applications, including the Cobra X/Ka tri-band Maritime Satellite Terminal which is now operational on a number of different classes of Navy vessels both in Australia and internationally. Thanks to its collaboration with Thales, EM Solutions is positioning to win further global business and extend its reach into other projects.

ENDS