India is on the brink of launching its Satellite Internet Service, and ahead of its rollout, a major milestone has been achieved in the field of connectivity. Eutelsat Group has successfully conducted the world’s first trial of 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology, using Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites from its Eutelsat OneWeb constellation. This groundbreaking test demonstrates the potential of 5G connectivity via satellite, marking a key step toward establishing a global NTN standard. The successful trial not only strengthens India’s upcoming satellite internet plans but also brings the world closer to seamless, high-speed mobile networks in even the most remote regions.

The successful trial of 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology is expected to significantly improve the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks, enabling lower access costs and broadening the reach of 5G-enabled satellite broadband worldwide. This milestone was achieved through the use of Eutelsat One Web’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, powered by MediaTek's NR NTN test chipset and an NR NTN test gNB provided by ITRI. The trial adhered to the 3GPP Release 17 specifications, with key contributions from Sharp and Rhode & Schwarz, who supplied the antenna array and testing equipment. Manufactured by Airbus, the LEO satellites are equipped with advanced transponders featuring both Ku-band service links and Ka-band feeder links, while utilizing the innovative 'Earth-moving beams' concept to enhance coverage and connectivity.

In a breakthrough for satellite-based 5G connectivity, Eutelsat announced that it’s 5G user terminal successfully established a connection to the 5G core via the satellite link during its trial, allowing for effective traffic exchange. This marks a significant achievement in the development of non-terrestrial networks (NTN) for global 5G connectivity. Meanwhile, in related news, Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite broadband service is making strides toward entering the Indian market. After months of delays, Starlink has submitted the required documentation to Indian authorities, signaling progress in obtaining regulatory approval. According to the Economic Times, Starlink’s application to the Indian space regulator will be reviewed by the Standing Committee of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center, which operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Space Department, before any approvals are issued.