LinkBack
Drone-Mounted 5G / Wi-Fi Network Node
LinkBack is a drone-deployed wireless networking payload designed to extend data connectivity into areas where fixed or vehicle-based infrastructure is unavailable. It provides temporary aerial network coverage for field teams operating in remote, obstructed, or damaged environments.
What it does
- Creates a local Wi-Fi network from the air
- Backhauls traffic over cellular when available
- Allows multiple ground devices to connect simultaneously
Why it’s different
- Aerial deployment avoids terrain and infrastructure obstructions
- Self-contained power and compute with no external tethering
- Rapid coverage without ground setup or vehicles
Performance Overview
Network Coverage
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Coverage Radius (Typical)
- 50–75 ft AGL: ~300–500 ft radius
- 100–150 ft AGL: ~800–1,200 ft radius
- 200–300 ft AGL: up to ~2,500 ft radius (line-of-sight dependent)
- Coverage scales with altitude and visual line of sight
Network Capability
- Supports multiple concurrent client devices
- Optimized for voice, messaging, telemetry, and moderate data use
- Lower obstruction loss compared to ground hotspots
Operational Impact
- Restore connectivity where cellular coverage is weak or absent
- Extend command-and-control into wide or obstructed areas
- Reduce reliance on multiple ground-based repeaters
Power & Endurance
- Onboard Power: Integrated battery sized for full-flight operation
- Runtime: Continuous network operation for typical mission durations
- Thermal Handling: Designed for sustained airborne compute and RF load
