It’s been announced that Avanti Communications has won a €8.3 million contract to take the lead in integrating satellite communications into Europe’s 5G networks.
London-based Avanti Communications Group provides satellite data communications services across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. It’s now been named as the project coordinator of the Satellite & Terrestrial Network for 5G (SaT5G) project.
The SaT5G consortium is made up of 16 partners with links to the telecommunications industry, including BT, Airbus Defence and Space, Thales Alenia Space France, and a range of educational institutions. The SaT5G project will also incorporate the input of various mobile network operators.
This 30-month project, which began in June, is intended to provide the seamless integration of satellite technology into future 5G networks. It will require Avanti to research, develop and validate key technologies to that end.
Some of the primary research areas that have been identified for Avanti to address include extending 5G security to satellite and multicast for content distribution. Following on from the research and development phase, live demonstrations are expected to take place at the project’s testbeds in the UK, Germany and Finland.
David Williams, Chief Executive of Avanti, said: "Avanti already leads the world in mission critical 4G satellite backhaul through its $29m contract with EE for the Emergency Services Network. We are proud to be leading the SaT5G project, with great players in the industry, to ensure the integration of satellite communications effectively into the future 5G architecture.
“Satellite communication systems will support the ubiquity, resilience and efficiency of 5G services; and open markets by offering exciting new business opportunities in media distribution, transport and underserved areas. 5G is the future and we are pleased to be making progress to ensure Avanti is 5G ready.”
It’s also expected that the project will drive 5G standardisation, and will even contribute to the definition of the 5G system.
Useful reading: What is 5G?
Image credit: Avanti
Jon has nine years experience of writing and editing copy for leading publications, as well as attending technology shows and events and conducting interviews. Currently working with 5G.co.uk, TechRadar, Trusted Reviews, T3, Digital Spy, What Mobile, Pocket Gamer, and The Gadget Show.
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