Viasat and Skylo Unveil Global IoT Network for Logistics

Race for Comms from Space Heats Up with Viasat and Skylo Launching Global D2D Network

The race for communications from space is heating up as Viasat, the satellite communications company, and Skylo Technologies, a non-terrestrial network (NTN) service provider, have announced the launch of a global direct-to-device (D2D) network. Their infrastructure agreement will allow Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), device makers, and chipset manufacturers to take 3GPP Release 17 compliant products to market using Viasat's network coverage and that of future partners. This collaboration aims to create the world's first global D2D network.

Initial deployments are planned for early 2024 in North America, utilizing the Ligado SkyTerra satellite network. Following this, a global rollout will take place. The network is not only designed to support consumer smartphone services but also targets massive Internet of Things (IoT), automotive, and defense applications.

For instance, food producers, miners, and logistics businesses will gain access to enhanced connectivity experiences, whether through cellular or satellite, without requiring proprietary satellite hardware. This will reduce end-user costs and optimize global production and supply chains. Viasat states that the network, in combination with MNO and chipset manufacturer collaboration, will provide new opportunities for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) looking to embed connectivity into their smartphones, wearables, vehicles, machinery, and other devices. IoT solution providers will also benefit from ubiquitous connectivity and economical hardware to scale their solutions globally.

Customers will be able to access the services through Viasat or Skylo. The network will combine Skylo's Release-17-based satellite technology with Inmarsat's geostationary, L-band satellite constellation, licensed spectrum holdings, and those of other satellite operators. Viasat acquired Inmarsat earlier this year. Anton Monk, VP of Wireless Initiatives at Viasat, stated that the network is available for testing today and will enable global market entry for innovators. By building the network on L-band geostationary satellite technology and utilizing the 3GPP standard, there is assured interoperability.

Skylo sees this collaboration as an inflection point for connectivity. Tarun Gupta, CPO and Co-Founder of Skylo, said that by merging their groundbreaking patents and 3GPP Release-17-based satellite technology with Viasat's extensive geostationary network, spectrum capabilities, and partnerships, they are unlocking a world of unprecedented connectivity. This network is not just a technological breakthrough but also a catalyst for inclusive, global innovation, bringing high-quality, affordable connectivity to every corner of the planet and revolutionizing industries from agriculture to transportation.

In addition to this collaboration, Viasat has been working with Lacuna Space for space-based IoT services. Lacuna Space demonstrated a first-of-its-kind, global, open standards-based IoT service at 'The Things Conference' in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The aim is to pave the way for a range of IoT and D2D satellite services.

Last week, Lockheed Martin completed a final demo of its first regenerative non-terrestrial network 5G Satellite Base Station (gNodeB). This demo was conducted prior to a self-funded space mission. The plan is to launch this payload to orbit next year, bringing space-based 5G capabilities to terrestrial users.

Overall, the collaboration between Viasat and Skylo, along with other advancements in space-based communications, is set to revolutionize connectivity and open up new possibilities for industries and consumers worldwide.