#Japan #Tokyo #satellite communication #Heli-DOUDEN #Nabicom

Nabicom Aviation's Heli-DOUDEN: Revolutionizing Police Helicopter Operations

In August 2026, Nabicom Aviation Inc., located in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, made a groundbreaking announcement: it has implemented Japan's first-ever helicopter-equipped video transmission system named "Heli-DOUDEN". This innovative equipment empowers police helicopters with cutting-edge capabilities for real-time video transmission, utilizing advanced iridium satellite communication technology.

Overview of the Heli-DOUDEN System

The Heli-DOUDEN is an end-to-end video transmission solution that integrates Nabicom’s proprietary airborne video encoder, the NVTS-02S, and the ground-based video decoder, FMD-300, with the Iridium Certus satellite communication device SDL-350 from SKYTRAC Systems. Because it capitalizes on Iridium satellite communication, this system effectively enables video transmission over extensive areas, even in situations where traditional helicopter television transmission systems struggle.

Key Components of Heli-DOUDEN

• - NVTS-02S (In-house Developed): This high-compression, low-latency video encoder has received approval from the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). It can securely transmit encrypted video from the aircraft in real-time, ensuring it meets stringent equipment standards necessary for aviation.
• - FMD-300 (In-house Developed): The ground receiver decodes and displays the video transmitted from the helicopter while also managing various commands to the in-air system. Notably, it operates without requiring a dedicated receiving antenna, relying solely on a single internet connection for video reception.
• - SDL-350 (SKYTRAC Systems Inc.): A versatile communication device supporting satellite voice communication and IP connectivity, among others, enhancing overall communication capabilities.

Lightweight Solution for Immediate Deployment

Traditionally, transmitting videos via satellite in helicopters posed significant weight challenges, which could impact search and rescue (SAR) missions by requiring the reduction of operational crew or fuel. The Heli-DOUDEN, however, has achieved an incredibly lightweight design of approximately 15kg, allowing it to remain onboard without affecting the helicopter’s payload. By doing so, it eliminates the need for time-consuming setup during emergencies, enabling immediate operational readiness.

This quick response is crucial during urgent SAR missions that require instant situational awareness and swift decision-making. By ensuring minimal preparation time, the Heli-DOUDEN reinforces the ability to share critical live footage from disaster sites or incidents.

Deploying the Heli-DOUDEN on Police Helicopters

With its introduction in August 2026, Heli-DOUDEN marked the first installation on police helicopters in Japan. This advancement allows real-time video monitoring from helicopters even in areas traditionally inaccessible by such systems, greatly enhancing the ability of police departments to respond promptly to large-scale incidents or disasters.

Integration with Existing Services

Besides video transmission, the Heli-DOUDEN connects seamlessly with Nabicom Aviation's existing aircraft management system, IMS-WEB+, and Iridium Push To Talk. This integration facilitates not just video, but also aircraft location data, operational information, text messaging, and voice communication between multiple parties, including ground teams.

Core Functionalities

• - Real-time aircraft location tracking
• - Text message communication between ground and aircraft
• - Sending and receiving operational information regarding destinations
• - Voice communication via Iridium PTT across multiple users

Future Prospects

Nabicom Aviation aims to advance the capabilities of Heli-DOUDEN further by offering integrated services that unify video transmission, operational monitoring, and PTT functionalities. The company is committed to enhancing safety and efficiency in mission-critical operations not just for police helicopters, but also for firefighting, disaster response, medical, and media operations among a variety of aviation sectors.

About Nabicom Aviation Inc.

Founded in Japan, Nabicom Aviation Inc. specializes in developing, manufacturing, and maintaining communication and information systems for aircraft and drones. With over two decades of experience in aircraft management, they provide innovative solutions that bridge the gap between aviation and ground operations, ensuring swift data collection and secure operations across diverse fields.

For businesses looking to enhance their aerial capabilities and communication infrastructures, Nabicom Aviation’s commitment to cutting-edge technology positions it as a leader in the industry.