In today’s modern society, it is clear that the world around us is unpredictable. Recent global events have highlighted the fact that, despite our desires, we cannot always control natural and external factors. On the other hand, satellites provide protection in the event of major disruptions that may affect key aspects of our lives, including financial transactions, trade, communications, media, security and power supply, and act as a reliable safeguard for critical communications infrastructure.
We must master our domain.
For governments around the world, the lesson is crystal clear: every nation needs to strengthen its ability to adapt, deploy and manage its critical communications infrastructure in the event of international conflict, the impacts of climate hazards, earthquakes or any other situation we may face in the future.
Typically, during a major global crisis, we rely on the capabilities of our existing terrestrial networks to communicate. However, in times of anxiety and uncertainty, we need to have alternative networks in place to maintain communication capabilities and protect our critical infrastructure. That’s why we need to rely on space and non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) to be prepared for any eventuality.
The integration of NTN and terrestrial (TN) technologies goes beyond simple coexistence: a seamless convergence where one complements the other to create a unified and robust 5G ecosystem. Leveraging the best of both worlds – NTN’s wide coverage and resilience, and TN’s high capacity and low latency – will unlock unprecedented connectivity possibilities.
One example of how we are already leveraging NTN’s potential is the deployment of high-speed, low-latency mobile broadband internet via satellite in remote and rural areas. This is typically achieved by transmitting internet from a satellite to an antenna on the user’s roof, which then passes the signal to a Wi-Fi router. Another example of new business born from TN and NTN is the first 5G New Radio-enabled smartphone. Although still in its early stages, emergency messaging and car assistance have already been demonstrated. As 5G New Radio advances further, new high-speed data and voice services will almost certainly be launched.
5G satellite connectivity opens the door to transformative applications across sectors such as precision agriculture, which enhances farming practices by optimizing water use, pest control and increased crop yields. Similarly, maritime and aerial connectivity will provide reliable, continuous connectivity, improving navigation and safety. 5G connectivity will also help transform the mining industry, enabling remote machine operation to increase operational efficiency while minimizing human risk in dangerous conditions.
Easier said than done
But challenges remain. What is easily achievable on a ground network can become very complicated in orbit. For example, how do you achieve a direct connection between a satellite constellation and a standard mobile phone? This is a formidable challenge due to factors such as spectrum, link budgets, high Doppler shifts, and increased latency due to terrain and weather interference.
One major effort to bridge this gap is the IRIS2 constellation, the European Union’s answer to the immediate challenges of the future. The constellation will provide enhanced 5G communications capabilities for government users and businesses, while enabling mass commercial applications such as mobile and broadband satellite access.
Developing this resilient and innovative network will require government agencies and private companies from the ground and non-ground connectivity industries to work together to fill the gaps. A joint consortium has been established and will be led by ESA, including Airbus Defence and Space, Eutelsat, Hispasat, SES and Thales Alenia Space.
The integrated team aims to foster collaboration between all European players across the entire connectivity value chain, with a view to supporting a wide variety of government applications in the areas of surveillance, crisis management, connectivity and protection of key infrastructure. The consortium is currently laying the foundations for the new network, engaging specialised SMEs such as Denmark’s Gatehouse Satcom to provide key components that will make this ambitious project feasible.
The private sector is also consolidating
Europe’s IRIS2 space program may be the first large-scale integration of standardized 5G terrestrial and non-terrestrial network technologies. But it’s not just about meeting critical government needs; it’s also about ensuring cellular connectivity in dead zones and improving internet access from home. And there are big things happening here, too.
Recently, the Global System for Mobile Communications Association and ESA signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize a new strategic partnership, the aim of which is to strengthen the competitiveness of the mobile and satellite networks industry and accelerate the development of innovative technology solutions for governments, businesses and consumers alike.
Another good example is the UK, where the government is working to establish a £160 million ($202 million) scheme called Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit (CLEO). The aim of the scheme is to fund the next generation of 5G satellite communications constellations. CLEO will provide the research and development needed to launch hundreds of satellites into space, aiming to revolutionise the UK’s communications infrastructure and fill the connectivity gap.
What lies ahead for us?
The future of bridging the gap in critical communications infrastructure will depend heavily on governments and policymakers’ decisions to support the expansion of critical 5G terrestrial and non-terrestrial network technologies. The road ahead is as complex and unpredictable as many of us would like. Barriers may arise from bureaucratic conflicts, insular perspectives, inflexible organizational rules and procedures, inadequate information, and toxic leadership. However, there is no doubt that the convergence of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks will bring about a major transformation in the communications landscape.
The result is a wealth of new business opportunities and competitive solutions for governments, businesses and private consumers – and, crucially, to continue providing citizens and governments around the world with a resilient, versatile communications infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of natural disasters and climate change.
Thorleif Astrup Hallund has over 25 years of product and business management experience in telecommunications companies and technology start-ups. He currently serves as Senior Business Development Director at Gatehouse Satcom, leading business development with a focus on 5G products for non-terrestrial networks.
