SES and Lynk Global Partner to Bring Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity Worldwide

Manufacturers of popular smartphones are increasingly embedding satellite technology to ensure continuous connectivity, even in areas with limited or no cellular coverage. In line with this trend, SES,  the Luxembourg-based satellite operator, is entering the Direct-to-Device (D2D) market through a strategic partnership with Lynk Global,  a U.S.-based pioneer in D2D satellite services.

“As a business, we are looking at satellite-adjacent markets that we can understand quickly, given our heritage as a satellite operator. Direct-to-device has a huge addressable market and a requirement for satellite componentry, presenting a great opportunity for us to expand and diversify. It became very evident to us that Lynk had the right credentials and could benefit from our global network, which has essentially doubled following the Intelsat deal. All the assets that SES now has – teleports, global points of presence, hundreds of thousands of miles of fiber, and 120 satellites in the sky – would be needed and could be used by Lynk to effectively connect its network. We’re very supportive of what Lynk is doing, and we’ve already built a strong collaborative relationship. In addition to our global multi-orbit network, our deep understanding of spectrum issues and regulatory processes will help Lynk accelerate time to market. Our existing relationships with global MNOs and governments will allow us to serve as a distribution channel as well.”

– Greg Orton, Chief Integration and Transformation Officer, SES

The collaboration aims to create a resilient multi-orbit D2D system, routing traffic from LEO to MEO satellites and then to SES’s ground stations. This approach promises near real-time connectivity, voice and mobile data services, and efficiency gains by minimizing the need for additional ground infrastructure. The network will also support MSS frequencies through Lynk’s planned merger with Omnispace.

Once operational, the Lynk-SES D2D service is expected to benefit mobile network operators, governments, enterprises, and automotive companies worldwide, particularly in connectivity-challenged areas. Potential applications include seamless consumer access, emergency communications, sovereign connectivity, and vehicle monitoring and telematics.

SES and Lynk are actively building prototypes, conducting trials, and engaging with manufacturers and investors, with plans to operationalize the service in the coming years. By combining SES’s multi-orbit infrastructure with Lynk’s LEO technology, the partnership aims to bridge the gap between satellite and terrestrial networks, unlocking new possibilities for commercial and government connectivity markets globally.