In a major boost for India's defence and strategic communication capabilities, Bengaluru-based firm olee.space announced a significant technological breakthrough on Friday. The company has successfully demonstrated a domestically developed wireless laser communication system capable of transmitting data at a staggering speed of 10 gigabits per second (Gbps) over a distance of 20 kilometres.
A Milestone in Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
The entire system was designed, manufactured, and tested within India, with approximately 85% of its components sourced locally. This demonstration validates the country's growing prowess in creating long-range, high-capacity optical wireless links essential for defence and other critical applications. The tests were conducted under realistic atmospheric conditions, proving the system's operational readiness.
Wireless laser communication, also known as free-space optical communication, offers several strategic advantages. It operates independently of the congested radio-frequency (RF) spectrum, has a low probability of interception, and is highly resistant to electronic jamming. These features make it particularly relevant for defence and government use, where conventional RF systems often face limitations and security threats.
Precision Engineering and Rapid Development
According to the company, the platform integrates sophisticated, in-house developed precision opto-mechanical subsystems. A key component is a high-accuracy gimbal manufactured in India that offers arc-second level pointing precision. The system also incorporates a fast steering mirror assembly built internally.
"Together, the dual-stage stabilisation system uses voice-coil and piezo-mounted actuators to maintain link stability over long distances, even under dynamic atmospheric or platform-induced disturbances," olee.space explained. These actuators are mechanisms that convert electrical energy into precise motion, ensuring the laser beam stays locked on its target.
James Solomon, founder and CEO of olee.space, hailed the achievement as a landmark moment. "Achieving a 20km, 10 Gbps optical link with carrier-grade availability under Indian operating conditions establishes India’s ability to design, manufacture and validate advanced wireless laser communication systems using predominantly indigenous technologies," he stated.
Proven Performance and Future Applications
During rigorous performance validation, the system achieved an impressive carrier-grade link availability of over 99.9%, meeting the stringent requirements for mission-critical communications. Remarkably, the entire project—from design and integration to field demonstration—was completed within just four months of receiving funding. This rapid turnaround highlights the increasing maturity and agility of India's private-sector defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The system's architecture is designed for versatility and can be adapted for use across diverse platforms:
- Terrestrial applications for ground forces.
- Maritime deployments on naval vessels.
- Aerial platforms like aircraft and drones.
- High-altitude platforms and potential future space-based applications.
This development significantly reduces reliance on imported optical communication subsystems. It strongly aligns with and supports India's national push towards achieving end-to-end indigenous development in advanced and secure wireless communication technologies, enhancing strategic autonomy.
