{"id":44242,"date":"2025-06-11T16:38:16","date_gmt":"2025-06-11T15:38:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/solutions-and-impact\/technologies\/networks\/?post_type=gsma_theme_resources&p=44242"},"modified":"2025-06-16T10:53:08","modified_gmt":"2025-06-16T09:53:08","slug":"non-terrestrial-networks-opportunities-and-challenges","status":"publish","type":"gsma_theme_resources","link":"https:\/\/www.gsma.com\/solutions-and-impact\/technologies\/networks\/gsma_resources\/non-terrestrial-networks-opportunities-and-challenges\/","title":{"rendered":"Non-Terrestrial Networks – Opportunities and Challenges"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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This paper explores the transformative potential of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)<\/strong> as a vital complement to terrestrial mobile infrastructure, particularly in bridging connectivity gaps for remote and underserved regions. With mobile subscriptions now exceeding the global population and over 95% coverage by mobile broadband networks, a significant 37% of the global population still remains offline despite being under network coverage<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NTN technologies leveraging (GEO\/LEO\/MEO) satellites, high-altitude platforms (HAPS), and uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) present a promising solution to overcome the limitations of terrestrial networks. The paper outlines key technical and interoperability challenges<\/strong>, while also emphasizing the value NTN brings<\/strong> across sectors such as telecom, smart mobility, IoT, agriculture, and emergency response. As standards continue to evolve NTNs are poised to support direct-to-device<\/strong> connectivity<\/strong>, enable integration with 5G and future 6G networks, and deliver more robust, resilient, and high-performance communication services worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Top five takeaways <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. NTNs are essential to bridge the connectivity gap<\/strong>: Despite widespread mobile broadband coverage, 37% of the population still don\u2019t use mobile internet access\u2014NTNs can extend service to these users, especially in remote or underserved regions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Direct-to-Device (D2D) NTN is evolving rapidly<\/strong>: There are three key tracks to D2D satellite connectivity\u2014including 3GPP-compliant NTN, proprietary systems (non- 3GPP standards) using MSS spectrum, and proprietary systems using unmodified 3GPP phones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Spectrum and Regulatory complexity are a major hurdle<\/strong>: Effective deployment of NTN depends heavily on spectrum coordination, coexistence management, and regulatory approvals, particularly where MSS and IMT bands overlap.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Strong MNO\u2013SNO partnerships are critical<\/strong>: Collaboration between Mobile and Satellite Network Operators is essential to harmonize spectrum use, ensure interoperability, and build a device ecosystem that supports seamless satellite-terrestrial integration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Technical Advancements are unlocking new capabilities<\/strong>: Standards are rapidly evolving to support more capabilities for NTN. 3GPP Release 19 introduces regenerative payloads and Ku-band support, enabling lower latency, better performance, and increased service resiliency.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

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