The Wireless Optical Alliance, a partnership of Defense, Signify, Aircision, FSO Instruments, SMART Photonics, Secura, TNO and BITS (Brainport Innovation & Technology for Security), has successfully taken a crucial step in the development of secure, wireless optical communication. During a unique test, a fully optical network was set up, in which systems from various parties – including LiFi and Free Space Optics – worked together in an integrated manner. A breakthrough in secure, wireless communication.
This technology enables ultra-fast, “invisible” connections that are resistant to eavesdropping and interference. This makes it a safe alternative to traditional radio and satellite connections. This offers applications for both the Ministry of Defense and the civil sector such as logistics, mobility and healthcare.
Unique optical network successfully completed
During the test, several innovative systems were linked together. For example, Aircision provided the wireless connection between the TNO ground station and the Signify operational container, in which the communication signal was successfully received via LiFi. In a complete setup, the laser beam is sent from a very fast-flying satellite, to then be tracked and received with great precision by the TNO optical ground station.
All components, including the telescope, worked optimally together. Signify’s LiFi technology plays a key role in this: it uses light to transmit data, which ensures a 100% shielded connection without radio interference. Crucial in situations where radio connections are unreliable or unwanted.
Menno Smeelen, Ministry of Defence: “What we have achieved together in such a short time is truly special. Thanks to the involvement of all partners and the support of BITS, a close collaboration has been established from the start.” Everyone brought their own strengths, and that is exactly what made the difference. I am proud of the trust, energy and results that we have already achieved together.”
Mark Gunther, Signify: "We are at the beginning of a revolution in wireless communication. The successful collaboration shows that the Netherlands is leading the way in building secure digital infrastructure.”
Luis Oivaira, Aircision: “With complementary technology, we have proven that it strengthens the security of communication, while at the same time enabling high speeds and rapid deployment.”
Philip Weimar, TNO: “Establishing and maintaining a connection with a very fast-flying satellite is impressive in itself. If we can expand this further with additional systems from partners to send the signal further, that means enormous progress.”
Next step: connecting vehicles, ships and drones
This next phase is now in sight: directly connecting satellites to defense vehicles, naval vessels and drones. An important pillar within this project is a conscious choice to develop the technology and supply chain largely within the Netherlands. This reduces the dependency on foreign networks and ensures that critical communication infrastructure remains fully under Dutch control.
The Wireless Optical Alliance continues to work to ensure that the Netherlands is at the forefront of the development of secure, wireless optical communication. New tests will be carried out in the coming months, including further demonstrations within Defense. NATO is also closely following these developments, which underlines the international relevance and potential of this technology.
About BITS
BITS (Brainport Innovation & Technology for Security) plays a key role in this consortium and acts as a bridge between high-tech companies and the Ministry of Defense. Together with the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the province of Noord-Brabant, Brainport Development and the Brabant Development Agency (BOM), BITS strengthens the collaboration between government and industry to strengthen the safety and resilience of the Netherlands.
