New 5G satellite base station aims to revolutionize global connectivity
ST Engineering iDirect and Capgemini have teamed up to build a 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) satellite base station. The project aims to improve global connectivity by blending satellite and ground-based networks. Both companies bring specialized expertise to the partnership, targeting smoother roaming and wider coverage for mobile operators.
Separately, Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile are also advancing a similar initiative, with Germany chosen as the operational hub near Munich or Hannover.
ST Engineering iDirect, known for its satellite communications technology, is working alongside Capgemini, a firm with nearly six decades of experience in business and tech transformation. Capgemini contributes its 5G gNodeB stack, which supports both transparent and regenerative satellite functions, as well as FR1 and FR2 frequency bands.
The new NTN base station is designed to handle the complexities of satellite connectivity while providing direct 3GPP access to 5G core networks. This setup ensures operators can scale globally and offer uninterrupted roaming. The solution also focuses on merging satellite and terrestrial networks, speeding up the adoption of software-defined 5G NTN standards.
Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Technology Officer at ST Engineering iDirect, highlighted that the collaboration meets the changing demands of operators and businesses. It aligns with their hybrid 5G strategies, bridging gaps in coverage and performance.
Meanwhile, Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile are developing their own 5G NTN satellite base station. Germany will host the operations centre, with potential locations near Munich or Hannover. This move reflects growing industry interest in satellite-based 5G solutions.
The combined efforts of ST Engineering iDirect and Capgemini will help operators integrate satellite and ground networks more efficiently. Their solution promises expanded coverage and smoother roaming for users worldwide. With Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile also advancing similar technology, the push for global 5G NTN adoption is gaining momentum.
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