Airbus UpNext, an Airbus subsidiary, has launched a network designed to demonstrate the capability of standardised global 5G connectivity by exploring advanced 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) capabilities.
The demonstrator, named the Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN (Space Radio Access Network), will be used to explore the feasibility of 5G NTN, a versatile connectivity technology that Airbus says is standardised, interoperable, and compatible with all types of business applications including commercial, defence and governmental use.
UpNext SpaceRAN will leverage Airbus’ software-defined satellite (meaning it can be reprogrammed from the ground after launch) capabilities to manage and optimise 5G signals in orbit. By processing data directly in space rather than simply relaying the date, the demonstrator will be used to prove reduced latency, maximised data throughput, and more efficient network management and routing, to enable user-to-user direct connectivity.
Developed as part of Air!5G, a project supported by the French government through the France 2030 investment plan under the Future Networks strategy, Airbus expects the demonstrator to show its first results by 2028. Airbus believes it will be key to preparing the next generation of wireless technology (6G) and eventually driving down the cost of orbital data transmission.
Airbus has brought together a consortium of partners for the project, including Aalyria, AccelerComm, CesiumAstro, Deutsche Telekom, Eutelsat, the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), Keysight Technologies, Onati, Radisys, Sener and ST Engineering iDirect.
The partners have created two key end-to-end test platforms. The on-ground test bed is a comprehensive Earth-based setup designed to rigorously mimic and test Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite behaviour, focusing on inter-satellite data transfer and routing.
The in-orbit payload will communicate with multiple terrestrial and airborne assets, with deployment of an advanced regenerative payload on an Airbus LEO satellite, connecting aircraft and users on the ground, and serving as a 5G non-terrestrial base station in space.
“The successful exploration of this technology will unlock advantages across various sectors. For commercial aviation, it holds the potential to boost operational efficiency and simplify interoperability, all while enabling enhanced passenger experiences,” said Michael Augello, CEO of Airbus UpNext.
“Similarly, for the military and government sectors, it aims to provide more resilient and secure communications, supporting improved situational awareness and accelerating real-time decision-making.”
