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Why 5G in EU-GOVSATCOM?

The integration of Non-terrestrial Networks (NTN) into the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standardization process, commencing from Release 17 and continuing into subsequent releases, notably Releases 18 and 19, alongside the ongoing development of 6G technologies, underscores a pivotal evolution within telecommunications architecture. This evolution is not solely driven by the mere pursuit of enhanced performance metrics vis-à-vis existing solutions such as Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) or proprietary alternatives. Rather, the imperative for the incorporation of 5G-NTN emanates from multifaceted considerations pivotal to the overarching objectives of 3GPP and the telecommunications industry at large.

Firstly, within the purview of 3GPP's standardization efforts, the inclusion of NTN aligns with the principle of fostering a consolidated development trajectory for air interfaces. By accommodating NTN within the standardized framework, 3GPP promotes an environment conducive to healthy competition among vendors, thereby catalyzing innovation and driving advancements in telecommunications technologies.

Secondly, the integration of NTN addresses the imperative of ensuring interoperability across diverse segments of the telecommunications ecosystem. Satellite operators, unbound by vendor-specific constraints, can seamlessly integrate with ground infrastructure and terminal devices. This interoperability not only enhances the flexibility and scalability of NTN deployments but also engenders an ecosystem characterized by enhanced resilience and adaptability.

Moreover, from a market dynamics standpoint, the incorporation of 5G-NTN holds the promise of delivering tangible cost efficiencies over alternative proprietary solutions. As market demand for satellite-based communications proliferates, the economies of scale inherent in standardized NTN deployments are poised to confer a competitive advantage in terms of cost-effectiveness. This trajectory not only augurs well for stakeholders within the telecommunications value chain but also underscores the broader societal benefits accruing from enhanced accessibility and affordability of telecommunications services.

Start:	Feb 2024
Call:	HORIZON-EUSPA-2022-SPACE
Topic:	HORIZON-EUSPA-2022-SPACE-02-61
Type of Action:	HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions
Granting authority:	European Union Agency for the Space Programme
Grant Agreement No.	101129593
Duration:	24 Months