The radome is designed to protect portable satellite communications equipment from sunlight, wind, rain or blown sand. It is constructed from a special fabric that allows transmitted and received signals to pass through and yet is airtight enough to remain inflated for a minimum of two hours in the event of power or mechanical failure of its inflation fans.

The design has a double skin so that no air lock in needed. This allows easy access for all, including royal visitors!

The contract was placed with Cameron Fabric Engineering by BAE Systems whose specification was demanding in terms of weight, electrical power consumption and the fact that the domes had to be able to withstand winds of up to 70 knots.