Abu Dhabi, UAE – Space 42 announced, on Monday, the conclusion of a strategic partnership with Skylo Technologies, the global provider of non-terrestrial communications network services, NTN. With the aim of providing direct communication service between devices and satellites. This is done via its satellite in geostationary orbit, “Thuraya-4”.
The two companies implemented this in practice by making an instant two-way voice call via the Thuraya-4 satellite. Without the need for a modified SIM card or any changes to the existing operator network infrastructure.
Technical integration between Skylo’s 3GPP-compliant non-terrestrial communications network platform and the Thuraya-4 satellite has also been completed. Confirming the service’s readiness for commercial launch.
This strategic partnership allows telecom companies to extend their existing network architecture in an integrated manner, rather than being a separate additional layer or an experimental solution. The identity of the devices is verified via the same SIM card and the same identity management framework. To maintain the operator’s relationship with users, while expanding coverage to include rural, marine and remote areas.
For users, this means staying connected even in areas that were previously out of coverage.
The service will be launched commercially within the coverage area of the Thuraya-4 satellite. This enhances Skylo’s presence in the field of non-terrestrial communications networks across more than 73 countries. The two companies are currently working to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals and conclude agreements with network operators in the targeted markets. The service will be deployed gradually as the accreditation procedures are completed.
