SES to revolutionize future space networks and optical communications
17 September 2025
In a strategic move set to reshape the landscape of space telecommunications, SES and K2 Space have announced a multifaceted partnership aimed at advancing next-generation satellite networks and optical communication systems.
The collaboration focuses on co-developing SES’s upcoming medium Earth orbit (MEO) network, which promises to be more agile, flexible, and responsive to market needs. Building on SES’s extensive experience operating multi-orbit networks — including its flagship O3b mPOWER MEO constellation — both companies are leveraging their combined expertise to develop a software-defined, modular infrastructure capable of supporting a broad spectrum of applications, from commercial enterprise to sovereign government services.
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Vodafone Idea and AST SpaceMobile to bring space-based cellular connectivity to India
24 July 2025
Vodafone Idea has announced a strategic partnership with AST SpaceMobile, a company developing a space-based cellular broadband network that connects directly to standard smartphones. This collaboration aims to expand mobile coverage into India’s unconnected and hard-to-reach regions, complementing existing terrestrial networks.
India boasts over 1.1 billion mobile subscribers, with extensive 4G and emerging 5G coverage. However, AST SpaceMobile asserts that satellite connectivity can play a crucial role in bridging the remaining coverage gaps, particularly in challenging terrains where deploying traditional infrastructure is difficult or costly.
The partnership will integrate Vodafone Idea’s extensive national network with AST SpaceMobile’s innovative space-based cellular technology, which allows ordinary smartphones to connect directly to satellites without requiring specialized hardware or software updates. This ecosystem aims to deliver voice, video, data streaming, and internet services across the country.
Tees Valley to map mobile coverage using bin lorries
24 July 2025
The Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) in North East England has announced a new initiative to map local mobile network coverage by equipping refuse collection trucks with monitoring technology.
The project, funded by £32,490 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), aims to create the most detailed and accurate picture yet of 4G and 5G signal strength across the region, including Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Stockton-on-Tees.
Motorola Solutions selected by Brazil’s EAF for mission-critical communications
24 July 2025
Motorola Solutions has been chosen by the Band Administration Entity (EAF), established by Brazil’s Telecommunications Agency (Anatel), to deploy a comprehensive federal mission-critical communication system. This initiative aims to enable seamless, real-time collaboration among Brazil’s defense and public safety agencies during joint operations.
Brazil has faced longstanding challenges in coordinating front-line response efforts across multiple jurisdictions. To address these issues, Motorola will integrate existing land mobile radio (LMR) systems with new broadband services, enhancing interoperability and data sharing capabilities.
