What's Happening?
French satellite startup Univity has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Telkom Indonesia's satellite arm, Telkomsat, to explore the use of very low earth orbit (VLEO) satellites for 5G direct-to-device (D2D) services. This collaboration aims
to assess potential use cases for satellite connectivity, focusing on enterprise connectivity, mobility, and solutions for unserved and underserved areas. The partnership will also evaluate hybrid multi-orbit architectures that combine Telkomsat's geostationary satellites with Univity's VLEO systems to deliver secure and resilient solutions. Univity, founded in 2022 and backed by the French government, plans to launch a global constellation of 3,400 VLEO satellites to provide wholesale 5G D2D services. The first satellites are expected to launch in 2028.
Why It's Important?
This collaboration is significant as it addresses the growing demand for reliable connectivity in remote and underserved regions, particularly in Indonesia. By leveraging VLEO satellites, the partnership aims to provide higher speeds and lower latencies compared to traditional low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, enhancing 5G connectivity from space. This initiative could play a crucial role in supporting Indonesia's digital ecosystem and addressing national security applications. The project also highlights the increasing importance of satellite technology in expanding global internet access and supporting digital infrastructure development.
What's Next?
The next steps involve Univity and Telkomsat conducting assessments and evaluations of the proposed satellite connectivity solutions. As the project progresses, the companies will likely focus on securing additional funding and partnerships to support the large-scale deployment of the VLEO satellite constellation. The successful implementation of this project could lead to further collaborations and advancements in satellite-based connectivity solutions, potentially influencing global satellite communication strategies.
