What if military satellite communications worked on standard cell phones? Not as a future concept, but today.

In this episode of Mission Critical: Defense and Aerospace Recruiting, Katherine Jerald is joined by Tim Hillner, co-founder of Fairwinds Technologies, to unpack a breakthrough that is redefining tactical communications. Tim and his team recently demonstrated the world's first tactical direct-to-device satellite connectivity using standard, unmodified commercial cell phones with no custom hardware required.

Working alongside AST SpaceMobile, Fairwinds validated secure voice, data, and mission applications over a non-terrestrial network, marking a significant shift in how military communications can be deployed at scale. Tim brings a rare perspective shaped by senior government engineering roles, startup leadership, and years spent operating in contested communications environments.

"You need to understand the intent of the requirement, not just what's written on paper." – Tim Hillner This conversation is not just about satellites. It is about alignment between government and industry, leadership under pressure, and how trust and technical rigor turn ambitious ideas into operational capability.

Inside this episode:– What direct-to-device satellite connectivity actually means for military operations – How Fairwinds and AST SpaceMobile achieved tactical NTN using standard cell phones – Why physics, not software alone, unlocked this capability – Lessons from Tim's time as an Army RF and satellite engineer – Why written requirements often fail and how to fix them early – How listening and alignment shape high-performing technical teams – The role of AI and adaptive networks in future C5, ISR, and EW systems – The hardest leadership lesson Tim learned as a founder under real pressure

If you work in defense communications, aerospace, or mission-critical technology, this episode offers a grounded look at how direct-to-device satellites are already changing the way the military connects, operates, and adapts.

Connect or learn more about Tim:https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothyhillner/ www.fairwinds-tech.com

Connect with Katherine Jerald: http://www.elraysearch.com Mission Critical is produced in partnership with https://www.podlad.com