2025 Issue One

D2D Satellite Services Driving the Next Wave of Global Connectivity

Sumaiya Najarali, Senior Consultant, Novaspace

What is Satellite Direct-to-Device?

Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) technology refers to the capability of mobile devices, such as smartphones, or IoT (Internet of Things) devices, to connect directly to satellite constellations in low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), or geostationary orbit (GEO), bypassing traditional terrestrial communication infrastructure. Novaspace’s research and estimates project the satellite D2D connectivity market to grow tenfold over the next decade to nearly $15 billion, driven by rapid advancements in technology and expanding satellite networks. Four distinct D2D markets identified by Novaspace underpin the rapidly growing sector: traditional handheld phone, direct-to-phone, satellite IoT and satellite-cellular IoT, with nearly 30 MSS operators attracting investments and scaling available supply.

Who will use satellite direct-to-device?

Satellite direct-to-phone services provide individuals in remote, rural, or underserved areas to access mobile services, including SOS emergency and text messaging, voice calls, and broadband/data, without relying on cell towers, which are typically limited by geography. They also extend geographic coverage of terrestrial networks reducing network coverage gaps prevalent in both developed and developing markets.

The satellite direct-to-phone market addresses mobile subscribers roaming outside network coverage areas and those living in areas without it. Direct-to-phone services are expected to address two distinct market segments, the out-of-coverage market, and the unconnected market. The out-of-coverage market considers mobile users that incur connectivity issues due to unreliable terrestrial network coverage, or from travelling to areas without terrestrial coverage. The unconnected market accounts for individuals that live in areas with no terrestrial network coverage (uncovered) and/or who are still unconnected to mobile services despite residing within a network coverage zone.

Current competitive landscape

Several operators in the D2D market are emerging, adopting two different spectrum strategies, which also influences their go-to-market (GTM) approach. Terrestrial spectrum players address the market through purpose-built constellations leveraging terrestrial spectrum that is primarily allocated to MNOs. These satellites are backward and forward compatible and can support in-market phones without any hardware modification. In some cases, these satellites are designed to support high-speed broadband applications, providing them with an advantage over MSS spectrum players. Operators such as AST SpaceMobile and Starlink are driving the momentum of this group, with initial services expected this year across select regions. These operators will gain access to a large addressable market through MNO distribution channels. However, the regulatory framework is less mature, and spectrum approvals and exemptions to use terrestrial spectrum from space must be secured on a country-by-country basis lengthening time to market and overall coverage/service areas.

MSS spectrum players on the other hand have positioned themselves to support direct-to-phone services using L-band and S-band frequencies allocated on a primary basis for satellite-based communications. Globalstar, Viasat/Inmarsat, and Iridium leverage pre-existing satellite infrastructure, providing them with a first-mover advantage in terms of time-to-market for initial services. Since these satellites are not specifically designed for communication with typical smartphones, initial services are constrained to narrowband applications like SOS emergency and text messaging. Smartphones (e.g. iPhone 14/15 models) also require modification in the form of specially designed chipsets in order to be compatible with the MSS satellite infrastructure, adding another barrier to adoption. Though the market for these players is slightly reduced by this limitation, network providers like Skylo are alleviating this barrier through their certification process. For example, Skylo certified cellular chipsets that roam on Inmarsat’s L-band satellites.

In terms of the IoT market, most new entrants adopting MSS spectrum are focused on serving satellite IoT markets, primarily through LEO-based constellations of low-cost, low mass small satellites (e.g. cubesats). Some new entrants (e.g. AST, Starlink, Lynk) that plan to offer direct-to-phone services as their primary target markets will address IoT as their systems are compatible with the cellular IoT frequencies used by partner MNOs. Incumbent operators will offer hybrid connectivity but only for new IoT shipments that adopt modified satellite-complaint cellular chipsets. Adoption is expected to increase as devices/chipsets become certified with their network.

Satellite direct-to-phone market projections

According to Novaspace’s research and estimates, direct-to-phone services aim to extend geographic coverage of terrestrial networks and are forecasted to connect approximately 425 million monthly users by the end of the next decade (see figure 3), generating over $10 billion in 2033. The satellite addressable market discounts the total global addressable market to consider unique mobile subscribers who are willing to pay for a satellite service, and unconnected individuals who face fewer constraints, and have the potential to access, and subscribe to services. Novaspace estimates the direct-to-phone market has the largest satellite addressable market when compared to other D2D satellite services (i.e. IoT) of over 5.7 billion in 2023. It is expected to sustain the fastest-growing subscriber base, with annual growth of approximately 50%. Majority of the total subscribers are expected to come from the out-of-coverage market, due to the demand for safety and security features, along with the expected low cost of the service. Accordingly, majority of subscribers are expected to adopt SOS emergency and text services due to demand for safety and security, notably in areas that are susceptible to network coverage (i.e. areas in the US that are more susceptible to hurricanes and other natural disasters).

Novaspace estimates the projected subscriber base will generate over $42 billion in service revenues across the value chain (see figure 4) over the next decade. Initially, many MNOs (e.g. T-Mobile with its Starlink service) and hardware providers (e.g. Apple with Globalstar, starting with its iPhone 14 model) are offering free introductory services including SOS emergency, and limited texting. Thus, early revenues are expected to flow entirely from MNOs to satellite operators. Over time, these revenues are anticipated to be split almost equally between satellite operators/network providers and service providers/MNOs. Strong growth projections can be attributed to the increasing device compatibility, MNO partnerships, and advancements in satellite infrastructure. Just over half of total revenues are expected to come from the unconnected market, relying on D2D satellite services as their primary mobile connectivity form. Majority of revenues generated are expected to come from broadband services, followed by voice & low-data rate applications, despite SOS & text services having the largest subscriber base, as pricing will be influenced by the price tiers and service structures of existing MNOs.

Satellite D2D in the Asia-Pacific region

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is diverse in terms of its geography, population distribution, and technological infrastructure. The region encompasses both highly urbanized areas with advanced infrastructure, like Tokyo, Singapore, and Sydney, and vast rural regions and remote islands with limited connectivity. There are many reasons why satellite D2D technology is expected to play a crucial role in this region.

Addressing geographic diversity and connectivity gaps: The Asia-Pacific region includes a mix of dense urban areas, vast rural expanses, archipelagic nations, and remote islands. For instance, countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea face challenges in extending communication services to their many islands and remote regions. Similarly, mountainous regions in Nepal, Bhutan, and northern India have traditionally been underserved by mobile networks due to the high cost and technical difficulties of building terrestrial infrastructure. Satellite D2D aims to provide a viable solution to bridge this connectivity gap, offering reliable services in these remote locations.

Growing IoT and 5G applications: The demand for IoT devices and 5G services in the Asia-Pacific is rapidly increasing. In 2023, the top three Chinese MNOs (China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom) were responsible for connecting nearly 70% (or 2.3 billion) of the total global cellular IoT devices. Governments and industries across the region are investing in smart cities, autonomous vehicles, agriculture, healthcare, and logistics. However, IoT devices often rely on low-bandwidth connectivity and can be deployed in environments without cellular coverage. Satellite D2D offers a reliable solution to keep these devices connected, even in the most remote or difficult-to-reach areas. Satellite-cellular IoT connectivity will go one step further connecting cellular-compatible IoT chipsets to satellites without any hardware modification. This nascent market consists of all IoT devices that can seamlessly roam onto both satellite and terrestrial networks through a single, integrated IoT chipset.

Satellite D2D is also critical for 5G rollouts in regions where terrestrial networks are impractical or too costly. With the low latency and high bandwidth potential of LEO satellite constellations, countries in the APAC region can advance traditional infrastructure and build next-generation communication networks using satellite-based systems.

Enhanced disaster recovery and emergency communication: The APAC region is particularly vulnerable to natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. In such events, terrestrial communication networks are often damaged, making it difficult to reach emergency service providers, coordinate rescue operations and communicate with affected populations. Satellite D2D can play a vital role in maintaining communications in disaster zones. Since satellites operate independently of ground infrastructure, they remain operational even when local communication networks fail. This ensures that emergency responders and affected populations have access to critical communication.

Increasing rural connectivity and digital inclusion: According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), more than 30% of the global population still lacks access to the internet, with rural and remote areas shouldering the burden of this digital divide. In Asia-Pacific, regions like rural India, China, and Southeast Asia have large populations with limited access to high-speed internet and modern communication services.

Satellite D2D technology offers a solution for providing mobile connectivity in these underserved areas, helping to bridge the digital divide. This connectivity allows for greater access to education, healthcare, financial services, and e-commerce, promoting digital inclusion and fostering economic development.

In the next decade, the APAC region is anticipated to lead globally in service revenues and the number of connected devices, driven by the significant demand for satellite coverage in remote areas and the expansion of MNOs in the region. Additionally, of the over 20 satellite-compatible smartphones from eight different manufacturers, nearly all are produced within the APAC region. Leading the charge are prominent phone manufacturers including Huawei, Xiaomi, and Honor. 3GPP-compliant chipsets and devices are also steadily entering the market. These developments underscore the influence of this market on the growth of satellite D2D technology, driving the next wave of global connectivity.

Unlocking Economic Growth through Satellite Direct-to-Device Connectivity:
A Regulatory Roadmap for Asia

Hamza Hameed, Senior Practice Manager, Access Partnership

The rapid advancement of satellite direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity is reshaping the global telecommunications landscape, with Asia poised to be a key beneficiary. By enabling seamless mobile coverage in remote and underserved areas, D2D connectivity offers transformative economic opportunities, including expanding digital access, strengthening disaster resilience, and driving new business models. However, the full potential of this emerging industry can only be realised with an enabling regulatory framework that addresses spectrum management, cross-border licensing, and market access challenges.

Connectivity is increasingly recognised as a fundamental human right, essential for economic participation, education, and access to critical services. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), 2.6 billion people globally remain without internet access, most of whom reside in rural and underserved areas. Bridging this digital divide is not just a matter of technological advancement but a crucial step towards ensuring equitable opportunities for all.

Recent developments in Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) spectrum allocation are accelerating the adoption of D2D connectivity. In a landmark deal, AST SpaceMobile secured 40 MHz of L-band MSS spectrum from Ligado Networks across the US and Canada, valued at approximately USD 7 billion over 80 years. This highlights the increasing recognition of MSS spectrum as a critical enabler of D2D services. Additionally, regulatory changes in jurisdictions such as the US, including the FCC’s 2024 rule permitting terrestrial spectrum (1850–2000 MHz) for Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS), have paved the way for companies like SpaceX and T-Mobile to deliver satellite-based cellular connectivity. Similar regulatory shifts in Asia could unlock significant market potential for regional operators.

This article explores the economic benefits of D2D connectivity, the regulatory barriers hindering its expansion in Asia, and strategic policy measures to foster a thriving ecosystem for innovation and investment.

The Economic Potential of D2D Connectivity

The economic promise of satellite D2D connectivity is significant, with a projected global addressable market opportunity of USD 15.5 billion by 2035. The breakdown of this market reveals its broad appeal: urban users contribute USD 14 billion, rural users USD 1.1 billion, and specialised satellite communication users USD 0.4 billion. The technology represents a crucial step toward reducing the digital divide while offering commercial opportunities across multiple sectors.

Bridging the Digital Divide

Asia has one of the largest unconnected populations, particularly in rural and geographically challenging regions. Traditional mobile network operators (MNOs) often find it economically unviable to expand infrastructure to these areas. With the advent of D2D connectivity, this barrier is lowered significantly, providing a path to universal coverage. Bridging this digital divide could contribute USD 1.2 trillion to global GDP by unlocking digital services such as financial technology (fintech), e-commerce, and telehealth.

As such, satellite technology is increasingly becoming an essential component of universal service strategies. Governments should leverage Universal Service Funds (USFs) to promote satellite solutions in underserved regions. USFs can provide financial incentives, subsidies, and regulatory benefits to operators that integrate satellite technology into their networks, ensuring that remote populations have reliable and affordable access to digital services.

Disaster Resilience and Emergency Communication

Satellite D2D connectivity enhances disaster preparedness and response capabilities. Given that global natural disasters are expected to cost USD 320 million per year from 2023 onward, improving communication systems through D2D technology could reduce these costs by USD 120 million annually – a 38% reduction. These services ensure that communities affected by natural calamities remain connected, enabling real-time disaster alerts, coordination of rescue operations, and emergency aid distribution.

New Business Models and Market Expansion

The evolving landscape of D2D connectivity is reshaping how consumers and businesses interact with satellite services. As the technology matures, users will have a choice between proprietary models tied to specific manufacturers or operators, and open-standard solutions. This diversification presents both opportunities and challenges for consumers, operators, and regulators.

For consumers, satellite connectivity will no longer be a simple on-or-off option but a nuanced decision similar to selecting a mobile data plan. Much like international roaming, users may need to weigh the cost of premium satellite access in remote areas against reliance on terrestrial networks. With devices seamlessly switching between satellite and cellular coverage, billing transparency will become increasingly important to help users manage costs.

The growing market also raises concerns about service prioritisation, particularly in emergencies where devices may need to operate in a restricted mode for critical functions. Competition among MNOs, satellite providers, and device manufacturers is intensifying. Apple has already embedded proprietary satellite features within its ecosystem, while Google has taken a standards-based approach, as seen in the Pixel 9’s satellite messaging integration through Skylo and Verizon.

For operators, this shift introduces new monetisation strategies, including premium satellite connectivity packages, specialised data plans, and bundled services with unlimited satellite messaging. The convergence of terrestrial and satellite networks may lead to direct competition between mobile operators and satellite firms for customer loyalty. Surveys indicate that over 70% of mobile users are interested in satellite services, and 80% of potential switchers cite D2D connectivity as a key factor in their decision.

The transition to hybrid networks (i.e., integrating geostationary (GEO), medium-Earth orbit (MEO), and low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites) will drive innovative business models. The remote satellite communications market, currently valued at USD 400 million, has primarily served niche satellite phone users. D2D services can expand this market by offering mass-market solutions, including pay-as-you-go options such as temporary “day passes” for satellite connectivity.

Consumer adoption trends are promising. By the end of 2023, 200,000 Android phone users were expected to spend USD 3 per month on satellite messaging, with this number projected to grow to 4.5 million users by 2026. Tech giants are also investing heavily in this space, as evidenced by investments in D2D connectivity by companies across the board, from Apple and its 1.5 billion+ USD partnership with Globalstar to launch a satellite fleet dedicated to D2D services, to Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile’s deal to create a European satellite service business with a heavy focus on space based cellular broadband connectivity. Additionally, Apple is investing USD 1.5 billion in Globalstar’s next-generation satellite constellation, expanding satellite-enabled features for its devices.

Regulatory Challenges and the Path to Harmonisation

As D2D connectivity expands, regulators must establish clear guidelines to ensure fairness, transparency, and security. Unlike traditional mobile services with a single provider, satellite connectivity involves multiple stakeholders. These include satellite operators, MNOs, and device manufacturers. The multiplicity of stakeholders raises questions about accountability for service quality, consumer rights, and legal compliance, such as lawful interception of communications.

• Cross-Border Spectrum and Governance Challenges: A key regulatory hurdle is cross-border spectrum interference, as satellite networks inherently operate across national boundaries. Large countries like the US and Canada have found it easier to implement Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) frameworks due to their geographic advantages, while smaller nations with complex borders face difficulties in managing spectrum-sharing agreements. Europe is actively working through the CEPT (European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications Administrations) and EU regulatory bodies, with outcomes expected around WRC-27.Regulatory influence extends beyond national borders. In 2024, the FCC introduced a pioneering framework for supplemental coverage from space, shaping global spectrum governance discussions. However, debates persist over waivers for companies like SpaceX to operate at higher bandwidths amid concerns about interference with incumbent operators. Political shifts within regulatory bodies may further influence these decisions, underscoring the interplay between policy and technological advancements.
• Security, Data Governance, and Competition: Satellite-to-cell services introduce new security and data governance concerns. Unlike traditional mobile networks that route traffic through national gateways, satellite communications can bypass these points, raising issues around data sovereignty and surveillance. Regulators must balance global connectivity with national security standards while addressing competition dynamics. The evolving relationships between MNOs, satellite firms, and tech giants necessitate clear competition laws, particularly as proprietary and open-standard models develop simultaneously.

Regulatory Barriers in Asia

Asia’s fragmented regulatory environment presents additional challenges for scaling D2D connectivity. Key issues include:

• Infrastructure Costs: Expanding terrestrial networks is prohibitively expensive, with fibre and microwave backhaul costs reaching up to USD 20,000 per kilometre. Satellite solutions provide a more cost-effective alternative for remote areas.
• Cross-Border Licensing: Satellite coverage spans multiple nations, requiring harmonised licensing frameworks to streamline service delivery. Regional agreements on spectrum sharing and service authorisation are essential to reducing bureaucratic delays and costs.

Policy Recommendations for Sustainable Growth

To foster an enabling regulatory environment, policymakers should prioritise:

• Harmonised Spectrum Policies: Asia-Pacific nations should coordinate spectrum allocation through forums like the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity to mitigate interference and enhance service reliability.
• Technology-Neutral Regulations: Flexible licensing frameworks should allow seamless integration of satellite and terrestrial services, promoting innovation and fair competition.
• Universal Service Inclusion: D2D services should be incorporated into national universal service programs, incentivising private-sector investment through subsidies and public-private partnerships.
• Industry Collaboration: Encouraging partnerships between satellite operators, MNOs, and tech companies will drive efficient network integration and service improvements.

Countries that proactively harmonise regulations will position themselves as leaders in this rapidly evolving sector, ensuring both market growth and consumer protection.

Satellite D2D connectivity presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to revolutionise global communications, with Asia standing to gain tremendously from its economic and social benefits. However, unlocking this potential requires a regulatory environment that fosters innovation, ensures spectrum harmonisation, and facilitates cross-border cooperation. By implementing forward-thinking policies, Asia-Pacific nations can position themselves as leaders in the satellite connectivity revolution, bridging the digital divide and driving sustainable economic growth.

Satellite Direct-to-Device – Bridging The Digital Divide

James Alderdice, Vice President, Asia-Pacific, Lynk
Mahmoud Khafagy, Vice President, Product Management & Sales Support, Lynk

At any one time more than 15% of the world’s mobile phones are not connected. The vast majority of disconnected mobile subscribers are on the edge of cities, in wilderness areas, on a country road or at sea. Whilst mobile network operators often provide coverage to more than 99% of where people live or work, there are many nations where a third, one half or even two-thirds of the geographical area of the country does not have mobile coverage. Given that people move beyond the places they live and work there represents a significant amount of mobile disconnectivity.

For mobile operators it’s not economically feasible to construct and operate a mobile base station or cell tower in places where the population density is too low or the terrain is challenging. In rural and remote Australia, for example, fiber backhaul can be as much as a $1M to put in place. In National Parks often mobile towers are not allowed to be installed. Reducing mobile black spots and extending universal service has long been an objective of governments and regulators around the world.

To solve this problem, Lynk invented and has pioneered Satellite Direct-to-Device technology (D2D). D2D technology provides the ability for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to operate as cell towers in space whereby the existing mobile phones in the hands of the world’s population can connect to when they cannot reach their home terrestrial mobile network. Lynk’s D2D technology enables the ability for standard mobile devices to communicate directly with Lynk’s satellites in orbit without any modifications to the mobile devices. This technology is poised to revolutionize the telecommunications landscape. This emerging technology offers a multitude of benefits, including expanding coverage, enhancing network resiliency, enabling new use cases, and bridging the digital divide.

Traditionally satellite networks are normally designed end-to-end with a specific satellite or satellites connecting to a specific customer terminal. Tyghe Speidel, Lynk’s CTO, was the first person to bring mobile network engineering together with satellite network engineering and invent a network whereby the satellites in low earth orbit acting as cell towers in space connect with existing in market customer terminals, that is, today’s 3GPP standard mobile phones.

By partnering with mobile network operators (MNOs) the challenge of incomplete mobile network coverage can begin to be solved. With access to as little as a slice of spectrum from the MNO, Lynk, can offer to light up geographical mobile black spots and the MNO can control which subscribers receive access and at what cost to that subscriber. The benefit of the spectrum coming from the MNO is that this is the spectrum that is licensed and already compatible and used by the mobile phones of their subscribers.

One of the most significant advantages of Lynk’s D2D technology is its ability to extend mobile network operators’ coverage to areas that are underserved or unserved by terrestrial networks. This is particularly crucial in remote and rural areas, where the cost of deploying terrestrial infrastructure is often prohibitive. This technology can provide a cost-effective solution to bring connectivity to these areas, ensuring that people in even the most isolated locations have access to essential communication services.

With Lynk’s service now live as a commercial beta many operators have had the opportunity to start providing non continuous SMS service often to specific areas and communities that have never had mobile coverage. For instance, in the SW Islands of Palau one community is experiencing mobile coverage for the first time using it to stay in touch with family and friends in the rest of the country.

MNOs are able to offer the service to their subscribers by defining locations, spectrum and subscribers access to satellite D2D coverage from Lynk’s satellites. The architecture is a roaming architecture where the MNOs’ subscribers roam on the Lynk coverage like they normally do when roaming on other MNOs’ networks and the connectivity between Lynk and the MNO is done via the existing global roaming IPX network that is part of the 3GPP roaming protocols, Lynk appears as a new outbound roaming partner to the MNOs. This has the advantage of making integration straightforward and is similar to what MNOs have done with dozens if not hundreds of MNO roaming partners already. In addition, the use of the roaming protocol makes the phone’s behaviour ideal in accessing Lynk as a supplementary coverage. Under the Preferred Roaming List (PRL) subscribers’ phones always seek and prefer their home mobile network. However, if this network is out of reach, for example, when in a beyond traditional coverage area, the phone searches for alternative means of connection and can find the Lynk network to connect to. If the home network becomes reachable again then the phone will reconnect to that as its preferred network.

Lynk network architecture does not require any hardware or software changes neither to the subscribers’ mobile devices nor to the MNOs’ core network. Lynk’s satellites are regenerative payloads with the base station onboard the satellite and elements of the core network both on the satellite and on the ground then connecting to the MNOs’ core networks using existing roaming interfaces such as the standard Diameter interfaces used today for roaming traffic.

As Lynk expands its LEO satellite constellation the billions of mobile users who experience mobile disconnection whether it’s for a short time or all the time will be connected no matter what. And with that will experience the benefits that come with mobile broadband, voice and SMS such as increased prosperity, enhanced safety, more educational opportunities, and greater community interconnectedness.

Satellite D2D technology can also play a vital role in enhancing network resiliency. In the event of natural disasters or other disruptions to terrestrial networks, satellite D2D can provide a backup communication link, ensuring that people can stay connected even when terrestrial networks are down. This can be critical for emergency services, first responders, and other essential personnel who need to communicate in times of crisis.

A wide range of new use cases can be enabled with Lynk’s satellite D2D. In the area of Internet of Things (IoT), for example, D2D can enable the tracking and monitoring of assets in remote locations, such as shipping containers, livestock, and agricultural equipment. In the enterprise sector, D2D can provide connectivity for remote workers, enabling them to access corporate networks and applications from anywhere in the world. In the government and military sector, D2D can support communications for troops in the field, providing them with a reliable and secure communication link.

By extending coverage to underserved and unserved areas, satellite D2D connectivity can play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide. This can help to promote social and economic inclusion, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the digital economy. Satellite D2D can also support education and healthcare initiatives in remote areas, providing access to online learning resources and telemedicine services.

The market potential for satellite D2D connectivity is significant. According to NSR, the D2D market offers the potential to generate $66.8 billion in 10-year cumulative revenues. By 2030, NSR projects that there will be 386 million average monthly users of Direct Satellite-to-Device services.

Satellite direct-to-device connectivity is a transformative technology that has the potential to revolutionize the telecommunications industry. The benefits of satellite D2D connectivity are numerous and far-reaching, and the market potential is significant. As the technology continues to mature, it is likely to play an increasingly important role in connecting the unconnected and bridging the digital divide.

Interview with Thierry Eltges, CEO, neXat

Can you introduce yourself and your company?

I’m the CEO of neXat, a company that offers the industry’s first cloud-based OSS/BSS platform developed specifically for satellite service providers and has a mission to redefine satcom management. We think it’s important to make it simpler, more cost-effective and more profitable for operators and organisations to manage their satellite networks and customers. We’re based in Belgium but our team is a diverse mix of industry veterans, experienced engineers and young professionals from around the world.

Can you explain what you see as the biggest hurdles towards simplifying satellite networks?

New LEO constellations, multi-orbit architectures, and hybrid satellite-terrestrial solutions are some of the factors increasing operational complexity and the technical demands on operators. A key challenge for the sector, from our perspective, is moving away from legacy systems for managing diverse hubs, satellite bands, and services. Legacy systems are inefficient and limit scalability, profitability and innovation. With this, the biggest challenge remains the dependency on traditional systems that are in place in organizations and the inertia to embrace a new technology. Even when a company realises that they can be more efficient by adopting new technology, the operational efficiency cannot be shown as an absolute cost benefit.

There is of course a lot of talk about LEO constellations such as Starlink’s changing the market for established operators, but it’s important that this new landscape is accepted and providers focus on delivering new services to customers and embracing forward-thinking technologies. We’ve shifted our focus at neXat, to develop our management platform for operators to meet this objective.

What’s important for the satellite ground segment specifically?

Much of the satellite ground segment is still made up of hardware systems and proprietary legacy architectures that are no longer the most efficient or cost-effective means to serve the newer generation of satellites. Instead, the future lies in cloud-oriented, software-based and virtualised platforms.

We hear a lot of talk about virtualization and the cloud. How do we know they aren’t just buzzwords?

Far from being buzzwords, I believe virtualization and cloud-based infrastructures are crucial to safeguarding the profitability and future of operators. Managing networks and bandwidth orchestration through a cloud platform, for example, allows operators and service providers to offer the flexibility customers crave. The ability to scale operations is made easier and there are options to integrate other applications thanks to APIs. Cloud-based services also enable real-time data processing and analytics, crucial for managing data from the large number of gateways of multiple satellites, and interoperability with technologies such as 5G.

How is the advent of multi-orbit offerings likely to change the landscape of the sector?

Demand for multi-orbit connectivity and services is increasing as more applications are introduced in a wider range of contexts. So being able to integrate and manage GEO, MEO, and (V)LEO satellites and leverage that to scale networks is important, but not easy, as it requires managing connectivity from satellites moving in multiple orbits and using multiple different frequencies and waveforms.

We’ve seen operators that traditionally offered GEO and MEO services embrace LEO satellites in their networks. There’s a lot of opportunity here as it means more customers can be addressed, if operators can scale their service offerings to meet changing customer needs, including expanding coverage to underserved regions.

Do you think this trend is affecting the APAC region too?

Yes, definitely. The region has traditionally had a very good demand for satellite connectivity and is embracing and encouraging a lot of new technologies, which the satellite sector needs to respond to. From the enterprise-grade applications being deployed by business to the increased data habits of consumers, operators need to be able to cater for video distribution at one end of the scale all the way to very low latency demanding operations at the other. That requires the ability to offer services from GEO, MEO and LEO satellites and even 5G across industries including telecoms, maritime and energy and many more.

What other opportunity do you anticipate for the APAC satellite market?

To pick one example, I’d say that the ability for satellite to be integrated with 5G as an access technology is a very interesting opportunity for the sector. Being compatible with standards and specifications such as the MEF and TM Forum API opens the door for teleport operators to work with both terrestrial networks but also with the large satellite operators that are currently implementing open standards in the industry.

What do you think will be some interesting ways for satellite and ground segment operators to increase revenues this year?

For operators to differentiate their offerings and unlock new revenue, the ability to provide new services is crucial. That could be through extending the services they can offer to customers – such as bandwidth optimisation or VNO capabilities – or by integrating new satellites and technologies. It’s important this can be done without disrupting existing operations, ensuring flexibility and adaptability. Infrastructure sharing can drive down capital investment and focus on revenue – we need to accept the Airbnb model in the satellite industry.

Is there anything else we should know about neXat?

At SATELLITE 2025, we won the coveted World Teleport Association’s Technology of the year award for our OSS/BSS platform. This recognised our contribution to operating teleports through lower costs, increased efficiency, new capabilities or access to new markets. For example, major satellite operator Arabsat signed a deal to deploy neXat across its fleet and launch multi-continental managed satellite services. neXat’s technology has also been trusted by GMV and the European Union Agency for Space Programme (EUSPA) on projects to improve access to critical communications services.