Intelsat at MWC25: How Multi-Orbit Innovation is Redefining Global Connectivity

Satellite’s Rising Influence at MWC 

Once a niche topic, satellite technology is now a major talking point at MWC, reflecting its growing importance in the telecom ecosystem. Jerry Collins highlighted this shift, stating: 

“I could have come here maybe 10 years ago, and nobody was talking about satellite and non-terrestrial networks. Now we feel as though we’re almost the center of the show. It’s almost bigger than AI. Well, that’s maybe an exaggeration, but I think we’re number two.”  

This transformation underscores how satellite networks have evolved from being an alternative to an essential component of global connectivity, particularly in bridging coverage gaps where terrestrial infrastructure falls short. 

A Multi-Orbit Future: Beyond LEO and GEO 

At the heart of Intelsat’s showcase was its multi-orbit strategy, designed to create seamless connectivity regardless of satellite type. Collins explained: 

“In a couple of years’ time, people won’t talk about LEO or GEO. They’ll just talk about a space terminal because that space terminal will allow you to get access to whatever space or satellite you need—whether it’s low, high, or in the middle.” 

This vision aligns with the industry’s push toward flexible, interoperable solutions, ensuring that users benefit from the best connectivity without being locked into a specific satellite architecture. 

5G NTN and Industry Standards: A Major Leap Forward 

Another major highlight was Intelsat’s role in standardizing satellite-terrestrial convergence through the 3GPP Release 19. Collins emphasized the significance of this development and also pointed to key partnerships, including a recent agreement with SoftBank in Japan, aimed at enabling seamless connectivity for vehicles moving between terrestrial and satellite networks. 

“SoftBank was really interested in vehicular mobility. If we could have vehicles that could be 5G-enabled, but when they move outside the terrestrial cellular network, they can connect non-terrestrially via satellite using the same 5G technology—that’s the vision they bought into” , he stated.  

Africa: A Pioneer in Satellite Innovation 

When discussing the role of satellite technology in Africa, Collins highlighted the continent’s unique position as both a challenging market and an innovation hub. 

“I always think that innovation in satellite use cases often comes from Africa. Satellite generally does really well where there are lower levels of infrastructure and large non-urban populations—that’s the reality of Africa.” 

With 5G deployment facing infrastructure and cost challenges in rural areas, Africa could lead the adoption of satellite-based 5G NTN solutions, ensuring wider coverage and affordability: 

“Africa could be one of those regions to adopt 5G NTN technology first, because in many areas, terrestrial 5G will struggle to extend beyond urban centers. But if you have a satellite-enabled device that works terrestrially and seamlessly switches to satellite when moving out of coverage, that changes everything.” 

– Jerry Collins, Director, Networks Product Management, Intelsat

He also pointed to Africa’s ability to drive scale, particularly in chipset manufacturing and cost reduction—crucial for making NTN solutions accessible across the continent. 

What’s Next for Intelsat? 

Looking ahead, Intelsat is laser-focused on bringing commercial 5G NTN services to market. Collins outlined the roadmap: 

“By the end of this year, we’ll complete the 5G NTN standards. In 2026, we’ll start rolling out early market solutions, with full commercial availability in 2027.” 

With standardization, industry partnerships, and multi-orbit advancements, Intelsat is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of global connectivity—and Africa is set to be at the forefront of this transformation.