Benzinga | Nov 30, 2021 04:44PM EST

Ondas Networks Receives FCC Authorization For New Aviation Radio

Ondas Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:ONDS) ("Ondas"), a leading provider of private wireless, drone and automated data solutions through its wholly owned subsidiaries Ondas Networks Inc. ("Ondas Networks") and American Robotics, Inc. ("American Robotics" or "AR"), today announced that Ondas Network's Mercury Radio has been authorized for use in the nationwide licensed 450 MHz Air-Ground frequency band. The new radio conforms to the lower transmit power allowed by the FCC waiver for the licensed Air-Ground Frequency Band.

On January 14, 2021, the FCC granted a waiver of certain legacy rules in the 450 MHz Air-Ground Radio band. The FCC provided relief of the rule requiring a minimum transmit power of four watts for the aviation radio. By allowing lower transmit power, the frequency band becomes viable for more highly scaled Unmanned Aerial Systems and Drones. The lower allowable transmit power reduces the size of the power amplifier, one of the main drivers of size and weight of aviation radios. A lighter radio allows for longer flight times before refueling or recharging, while lower transmit power allows for greater frequency reuse.

"We are very proud to have delivered our first radio for the licensed Air-Ground Frequency Band based on the FCC's waiver," stated Eric Brock, CEO of Ondas Networks. "The Mercury Radio is another example of innovation being driven by Ondas Networks to enable highly scaled unmanned aerial systems. Our field-tested command and control ("C2") capabilities, along with our support for multiple licensed frequencies, will provide operators throughout the drone ecosystem with a new option in the 450 MHz band and other bands supporting air to ground communication," concluded Mr. Brock.