DRONELIFE Exclusive: Elsight CEO on How Halo Connectivity Enables Reliable BVLOS Drone Operations

Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight is widely recognized as a key enabler for the commercial drone industry. With the ability to fly drones over long distances without direct human oversight, BVLOS operations unlock new possibilities for industries such as delivery, infrastructure inspection, and defense. However, one of the biggest challenges to BVLOS adoption is ensuring reliable, uninterrupted connectivity. Elsight, an Israel-based technology company, has developed the Halo connectivity platform to address this challenge.

We spoke with Yoav Amitai, CEO of Elsight, to learn more about how Halo is transforming BVLOS operations through continuous, multi-link connectivity.

The Origins of Halo

Elsight’s founders, Roee Kashi and Nir Gabbay, initially developed video compression technology based on their military experience. By 2019, they identified a growing need in the uncrewed industry for highly reliable Command and Control (C2) connectivity. This led to the development of Halo, a connectivity platform designed to ensure seamless and redundant communication for drone operations.

“Halo was built with one goal in mind: ensuring mission continuity in all circumstances,” explains Amitai. “By creating a bonded tunnel using all available wireless links, we eliminate single points of failure and ensure uninterrupted connectivity.”

How Halo Ensures Reliable Connectivity

Unlike traditional failover solutions that switch between networks only when a connection is lost, Halo aggregates multiple communication links simultaneously. Typically, the system integrates four LTE/5G modems from major operators, along with private networks, Wi-Fi, RF, and satellite links. Halo actively manages these connections, steering traffic dynamically across networks to optimize reliability and minimize latency.

“In our terminology, ‘disconnect’ is game over,” says Amitai. “Our technology prevents that scenario by ensuring every available link is used efficiently, maintaining a seamless connection.”

Overcoming Connectivity Challenges in Complex Environments

BVLOS flights often take place in areas with limited connectivity, such as remote regions, mountainous terrain, and industrial sites. Halo’s ability to integrate multiple spectrum bands—including commercial and military networks, point-to-point radio (MANET), and satellite communications—ensures reliable performance even in challenging environments.

“Halo allows for smooth handoffs between different communication paths without downtime,” says Amitai. “This is critical for applications like inspecting pipelines, monitoring electric grids, or delivering essential supplies to remote locations.”

Additionally, Halo’s HeatSight feature collects and analyzes data on signal strength at every point along a flight path, helping optimize future operations.

Applications and Industry Impact

Halo’s multi-link connectivity is proving essential across various industries. In drone delivery, it enables seamless remote operation, ensuring real-time tracking and control of flights. For infrastructure inspection, drones equipped with Halo can fly closer to assets, collecting high-quality data without connectivity interruptions. In defense, the platform enhances operational security by preventing jamming and enabling reliable communication across borders.

“Halo isn’t just about keeping drones connected,” Amitai notes. “It’s about enabling entire fleets to operate safely, efficiently, and with complete situational awareness.”

A recent addition to the platform, the Boxed Halo, provides an immediate, deployable connectivity solution. This variant has been particularly useful in environments with poor infrastructure, supporting both commercial and defense missions.

The Role of Cellular Networks in BVLOS Flight

With Elsight’s CTO, Roee Kashi, serving as Co-Chair of the GSMA Drone Interest Group, the company is deeply involved in shaping the future of cellular-based drone connectivity. Cellular networks, widely available and cost-effective, are expected to form the backbone of BVLOS operations.

“Mobile operators are always looking for new revenue streams, and the expansion of cellular infrastructure for drone connectivity presents a significant opportunity,” says Amitai. “By integrating cellular networks with other communication methods, we can create a truly global, reliable BVLOS ecosystem.”

The Future of Elsight and the Halo Platform

Looking ahead, Elsight is focused on expanding the capabilities of the Halo platform. The company is exploring applications beyond drones, including robotics and communication for large autonomous vehicles. Amitai hints at exciting developments on the horizon: “Our R&D and product teams are working on new capabilities that will make a big impact. We’re always looking to provide our partners with more ‘wow’ moments.”

For innovators in the drone industry tackling connectivity challenges, Amitai offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t fall in love with your solution—fall in love with the problem. And if connectivity is your challenge, come work with us at Elsight!”

As BVLOS operations continue to gain regulatory approval and commercial traction, connectivity solutions like Elsight’s Halo will be critical in enabling safe, scalable, and efficient drone missions. With its commitment to uninterrupted, multi-network communication, Elsight is positioning itself as a key player in the evolution of unmanned systems.

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Read more:

• Elsight’s Connectivity Powers Phoenix Air Unmanned’s 320-Mile BVLOS Pipeline Patrol for Shell
• Elsight Launches HeatSight: Revolutionary Tool for Safer and Smarter UAV Flight Planning
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