- Intelsat emphasizes the importance of integrating satellites with terrestrial networks for seamless connectivity.
- Multi-orbit operations and interoperability are key to future satellite communications.
What happened: Satellite and terrestrial networks to merge
During MWC 2025, Intelsat’s Director of Business Development, Ken Takagi, highlighted the growing trend of integrating satellites with terrestrial networks. He emphasized that the days of satellites functioning as standalone connectivity solutions are coming to an end. Instead, the future lies in seamless interoperability between terrestrial, low-Earth orbit (LEO), medium-Earth orbit (MEO), and geostationary orbit (GEO) networks.
Takagi pointed out that satellite communications, once considered a backup for remote locations, are now playing an essential role in global connectivity. Companies like Starlink have made LEO satellites more accessible, leading to increased adoption of satellite technology. However, Takagi noted that each orbit type has its strengths and weaknesses, making a blended approach the most effective solution.
Intelsat is investing heavily in multi-orbit operations, ensuring that customers—especially governments and enterprises—receive reliable, secure, and high-performance connectivity. The goal is to create an environment where users no longer need to differentiate between satellite and terrestrial services; instead, the network will automatically switch between available options to provide the best experience.
Also read: Empowering remote operations: Emma Sinclair on Marlink’s hybrid satellite networks
Also read: EU launches IRIS² to challenge Starlink’s global satellite dominance
Why it’s important
One of the primary drivers of satellite-terrestrial integration is cost-effectiveness. According to Takagi, covering a square kilometer is cheaper with satellite technology than with terrestrial networks. However, mobile network operators (MNOs) continue to rely on terrestrial towers due to their density advantages. In the future, while satellite networks are unlikely to replace cell towers entirely, they will complement them by enhancing coverage and resilience.
Natural disasters are another factor pushing the adoption of satellite technology. As extreme weather events become more frequent, terrestrial networks face increased risks of disruption. In such scenarios, satellites provide a crucial backup, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity when ground infrastructure fails.
The telecommunications industry is rapidly evolving, and the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks represents the next frontier. By embracing multi-orbit solutions and ensuring seamless interoperability, companies like Intelsat are shaping the future of global connectivity.
