ESA and Hispasat have launched a joint effort to develop secure quantum key distribution via satellite and terrestrial networks. The Q-Design project involves major telecom and banking players, aiming to roll out a versatile QKD system by 2028.
The European Commission is set to approve a €2.8 billion merger between SES and Intelsat, aiming to strengthen Europe’s satellite independence. Though not a direct rival to Starlink, the combined entity will leverage GEO, MEO, and LEO assets to expand coverage and support EU initiatives like IRIS2.
Intelsat is expanding its satellite services in the Solomon Islands and India, improving rural connectivity and supporting broadcast networks. A new agreement with STCL brings better voice and data access to remote island communities, while India’s approval opens the door for expanded satellite coverage and content delivery using four geostationary satellites.
Five global tech leaders, led by Singapore University of Technology and Design, demonstrated a pioneering satellite-powered 5G network linking Singapore and Japan. This breakthrough proves the viability of space-based communication with terrestrial networks, paving the way for seamless global connectivity.
Chunghwa Telecom is partnering with Astranis to launch Taiwan’s first dedicated geostationary satellite, enhancing national connectivity and infrastructure resilience. Scheduled for deployment by 2025, the project is part of a larger satellite program and reflects Taiwan’s commitment to secure communication systems.
Anatel has approved Starlink to launch 7,500 more satellites in Brazil, expanding its network. While boosting internet coverage, the decision raised regulatory concerns. Amid tensions with Brazilian authorities and global contract setbacks, Starlink also faces rising costs from U.S. import tariffs.
Telenor has secured a 10-year deal to supply advanced, satellite-free communication tech to Swedish and Finnish militaries via its subsidiary KNL. The agreement, part of deeper Nordic defense ties, positions Telenor at the forefront of secure, resilient military communications amid rising global security challenges.
The UK telecommunications regulator, Ofcom, has granted a crucial licence to Amazon Kuiper satellite constellation. This move aims to enhance satellite internet services across the UK, especially in rural areas.
Amazon is set to disrupt the UK’s satellite broadband market with Project Kuiper, aiming to rival Starlink’s dominance. By deploying over 3,200 satellites targeting underserved areas, Amazon seeks to revolutionize connectivity.
AST SpaceMobile has secured a U.S. government contract under the SDA’s HALO program, enabling it to compete in prototype space tech projects. This milestone positions the company to demonstrate its large BlueBird satellite arrays for government use, with potential applications in secure communication.
