February 16, 2026 — LMT Group and Spanish satellite operator Sateliot have launched a 12-month joint initiative with the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop a universal dual-mode IoT module. This project aims to bridge the gap between terrestrial cellular networks and 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), enabling seamless global connectivity for standard IoT devices without hardware modifications.
Advancing the 5G NTN Ecosystem
The initiative focuses on the development of a hybrid module that utilizes the 3GPP Release 17 standard, allowing devices to switch between ground-based towers and Sateliot’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation. This “Store and Forward” technology is designed to eliminate connectivity “black spots” in remote areas, a critical requirement for industries such as maritime logistics, precision agriculture, and environmental monitoring.
The project will advance the technology from Technical Readiness Level 2 (TRL 2) to TRL 3, establishing the foundational architecture for a commercial rollout. This follows LMT Group’s recent move into hardware manufacturing with its IoT Shortcut module, which the company began testing in late 2025.
Technical Specifications: The “IoT Shortcut” Architecture
The dual-mode module integrates LMT’s existing IoT Shortcut hardware with Sateliot’s 5G-ready satellite software stack. Key performance metrics include Standardized fully compliant 3GPP Rel. 17 NB-IoT NTN protocols. This and energy efficientency optimized for battery-powered sensors, with a projected lifespan of up to 10 years on a single charge.
Engineered to be the world’s smallest mobile data module, facilitating rapid integration into existing sensor ecosystems secure data is processed and stored on European servers, supporting EU strategic autonomy in telecommunications.
Industry Leadership Perspective
“By combining our expertise in terrestrial mobile networks with Sateliot’s orbital infrastructure under the guidance of ESA, we are creating a comprehensive ecosystem that allows any developer to accelerate product development from years to just a few months. This is a vital step for Europe’s technological sovereignty.” — Juris Binde, President of LMT Group
Path to Commercial Operations
The initiative arrives as Sateliot enters its industrial phase, having recently inaugurated Europe’s first 5G Satellite Development Center in Barcelona. The company plans to launch five additional satellites later in 2026 to enhance its existing 5G NB-IoT constellation.
Following the 12-month development phase, the dual-mode module will undergo field testing with early-adopter clients in the defense and infrastructure sectors before a full commercial release targeted for 2027.
