Turkcell and Sateliot say they have successfully completed a field demonstration of 5G NTN IoT connectivity via satellite in Barcelona and Istanbul.satellite connectivity solutions
The partners validated standard-based 5G narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) NTN connectivity over Sateliots low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation and demonstrated how the satellite capability can operate as an extension of Turkcells terrestrial cellular network.
Validated NB-IoT NTN over Sateliots LEO constellation
Turkcell and Sateliot say their field test validated standard-based 5G narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) NTN connectivity using Sateliots LEO satellite constellation. The focus of the demonstration was to validate NB-IoT NTN connectivity while relying on the satellite layer to support device connectivity when terrestrial coverage is unavailable.
Seamless switch between mobile and satellite without interruption
In the partners framing, the test confirms that cellular IoT devices can remain connected seamlessly when they leave terrestrial coverage by switching between mobile and satellite networks without service interruption. The demonstration also showed the satellite capability integrated as an extension of Turkcells terrestrial cellular network.
Sateliots Gianluca Redolfi, CCO, said the project demonstrates that satellite connectivity can be seamlessly integrated with the mobile network. For operators, this is closely tied to how they deliver satellite connectivity solutions alongside terrestrial coverage.
Use cases the partners say are enabled by the integration
The partners say the approach opens the door to new digital applications in remote and hard-to-reach areas where connectivity is currently limited. They also say the combination of terrestrial and satellite connectivity allows extended reach to remote areas without replacing existing devices, and they position this as delivering an uninterrupted experience for end users.
Future deployments to follow the trial
Following the success of the demonstration, Sateliot and Turkcell say they will explore future deployments. They add that those future deployments aim to consolidate a more connected, inclusive IoT ecosystem ready for the challenges of digitalization.