Conscious of the need to expand the benefits of connectivity to as many potential citizens as possible, Next Generation Mobile Networks (NGMN) and EMEA Satellite Operators Associations (ESOA) wish to explore synergies between satellite and terrestrial technologies. The ESOA and the NGMN Alliance have joined forces to strengthen their relationship and to foster a closer co-operation in the area of integration of satellite solutions in the 5G ecosystem. 

This co-operation agreement brings together two recognized industry organizations in the field of 5G cellular and satellite networks, respectively.  This will allow mobile and satellite operators to assess the benefits of new business models that will extend connectivity and potentially unleash new markets and growth for both sectors. 

Peter Meissner, CEO of the NGMN Alliance said that the NGMN project on Extreme Long-Range Communications for Deep Rural Coverage provides essential guidance in terms of end-to-end requirements for rural scenarios. They are looking forward to a close co-operation with ESOA to jointly drive successful global development of the required 5G technology platform for the benefit of the whole industry. The integration of Non-Terrestrial Networks with greatly expanded reach can help operators to provide services to most or all of their territory. 

Aarti Holla Maini, Secretary General of ESOA, stated that the cooperation between NGMN and ESOA is an important step forward to working towards true universal 5G through a Network of Networks. 5G needs a genuine commitment to making cross-sector cooperation a success in order to really deliver a tangible difference over 4G/LTE and to extend connectivity overall. The cooperation will therefore exclusively focus on technologies, their real business impact and their potential interworking and integration.