United Kingdom – October 27, 2026 -- ST Engineering iDirect's 450SDM software-defined modem is 30% smaller than its predecessor, and Paradigm is integrating it into its PIM-based tactical terminals for government and defense users, according to Paradigm founder Ulf Sandberg.
PIM architecture links iDirect modems to lightweight terminals
Paradigm's Paradigm Interface Module (PIM) integrates the iDirect 950mp and the new 450SDM into a single platform, yielding the PIM950 and PIM450 configurations. Users can switch between software-defined profiles at the touch of a button. Sandberg said the 450SDM's compact form factor suits lightweight systems such as the backpack-ready RAGNO terminal, and that it supports multi-orbit and multi-waveform operation. The single-case HORNET terminal uses the same approach.
Multi-orbit planning keeps GEO as the primary layer
Sandberg said GEO remains the primary layer for reliability. The PIM's multi-orbit WAN and PACE planning tool adds further systems to maintain "always-on" service in contested or degraded environments. He described the shift as an evolution of SATCOM across Milsat applications such as WGS and commercial networks, not a redefinition.
Terminals combine FIPS-level TRANSEC with IP67 and GPS-denied operation
The modems provide FIPS 140-2 and 140-3 Level 3 TRANSEC. Paradigm adds embedded anti-tamper protection, an IP67 rating and full operation in GPS-denied environments.
Paradigm cites five-minute deployment and stored mission profiles
Paradigm says its terminals deploy in under five minutes with plug-and-play operation and AI-assisted pointing that needs no specialist expertise. Pre-configured mission profiles stored in the PIM cut setup time and downtime.
Four defense events are scheduled through August
The companies will exhibit at SOF Week in Tampa, Florida (May 18-21) and the iDirect Defence Technology Day in Munich (June 10). They will also attend TechNet Augusta in Georgia (August 17-20) and DALO Industry Days in Herning, Denmark (August 19-20).