Telefónica and the satellite company Sateliot have formed a strategic alliance to accelerate the development of satellite-based 5G connectivity, with a focus on defense and security applications and coverage in areas lacking terrestrial infrastructure.

The agreement reinforces the convergence between mobile networks and space systems as a key element in the evolution of critical telecommunications.

The project aims to extend 5G coverage to remote, maritime, or completely network-free areas where traditional infrastructure cannot operate. To this end, both companies will work on the 5G New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks (NR-NTN) standard, designed specifically to integrate terrestrial networks with low-Earth orbit satellite constellations.

This hybrid architecture will enable expanded service continuity in scenarios where connectivity is essential, ranging from logistics operations to emergency situations or security missions.

One of the central pillars of the agreement is the development of specific capabilities for the defense sector. The combination of the so-called “5G bubbles” deployed by Telefónica with Sateliot’s satellite connectivity will enable resilient communications in tactical environments, where network availability cannot depend on fixed infrastructure.

"This alliance is a strategic step towards expanding 5G connectivity from space. Integrating our 5G NTN with Telefónica's terrestrial infrastructure will allow us to extend coverage to remote environments and enable critical uses, such as industrial IoT and infrastructure monitoring, as well as logistics, energy, maritime, and security services," said Jaume Sanpera, CEO and founder of Sateliot.

This approach opens the door to new use cases in military operations, civil protection, and the monitoring of critical infrastructure, in a context where technological sovereignty and independence from global networks are becoming increasingly strategically important.

The proposed model integrates terrestrial mobile networks with low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, creating a global communications infrastructure. Sateliot will contribute its satellite constellation designed for IoT services and direct connectivity, while Telefónica will adapt its 5G capabilities for operation in non-terrestrial environments.

Beyond the defense sector, the collaboration also aims to strengthen network resilience in strategic sectors such as energy, transportation, logistics, and public services. The ability to maintain connectivity in adverse scenarios has become a critical factor for the operational continuity of essential infrastructure.

Satellite 5G positions itself as a complementary layer to traditional mobile networks, capable of eliminating coverage blind spots and ensuring communications even in situations of terrestrial network failure or saturation.

The agreement between Telefónica and Sateliot reflects a broader trend in the sector: the transition toward truly global connectivity, where space ceases to be an isolated environment and becomes a natural extension of the mobile network.

This piece was automatically translated from DCD's Spanish site and edited by a member of DCD's editorial staff.