Splash247: Telefónica and Sateliot target maritime connectivity gap with 5G satellite tie-up

Published by Splash247

Telefónica España and satellite operator Sateliot are teaming up to extend 5G connectivity into remote and maritime zones through a new hybrid terrestrial-satellite network architecture.

The agreement will see the companies collaborate on 5G New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks (NR-NTN), combining terrestrial mobile infrastructure with low earth orbit (LEO) satellites to support communications in areas beyond the reach of traditional networks.

The partnership is aimed at expanding coverage across remote, maritime and unconnected regions while also supporting security and defence applications.

Under the arrangement, Sateliot will contribute its LEO-based satellite connectivity platform, while Telefónica will focus on adapting 5G NR technology for defence and security use, including interoperability with terrestrial 5G systems and military applications.

“The combination of Sateliot’s satellite capabilities and our 5G SA bubble deployments will allow us to extend terrestrial connectivity into the space domain, strengthening coverage and resilience in critical environments,” said Javier López Gutiérrez, director of defence and security at Telefónica España.

The companies also plan to jointly develop pilot projects and advanced satellite connectivity functions designed for critical communications and network resilience in complex operating environments.

Sateliot chief executive Jaume Sanpera said the partnership would help “support critical use cases, such as industrial IoT and infrastructure monitoring, as well as logistics, energy, maritime, and security services.”