- SES to fund Lynk’s D2D satellite constellation development
- The partnership enhances global connectivity for governments and MNOs
What happened: SES and Lynk partner for satellite-based direct-to-device connectivity
SES has announced a strategic investment in Lynk Global, expanding its direct-to-device (D2D) satellite services. The partnership, unveiled by SES CEO Adel Al-Saleh at the SATELLITE 2025 conference, includes Series B funding for Lynk’s LEO satellite constellation and a collaboration on network development.
Under the agreement, SES will act as a channel partner, enabling government, mobile network operators (MNOs), and automotive customers to access Lynk’s services. The D2D network will support remote communications, emergency response, and secure government applications. Additionally, SES will route Lynk’s LEO traffic through its MEO satellites for real-time data delivery and provide ground network access and telemetry services.
SES also plans to relocate Lynk’s satellite manufacturing to Europe, reinforcing regional sovereignty in space technology. Lynk, which first connected a LEO satellite to a mobile phone in 2020, is working towards scaling its operations while pursuing a public listing via SPAC merger.
Also read: Vodafone advances direct-to-device satellite connectivity trials
Also read: Globe and Lynk to launch direct-to-device satellite service
Why it’s important
The partnership between SES and Lynk marks a significant step in the expansion of direct-to-device satellite communications. As demand for remote connectivity grows, satellite operators are developing hybrid LEO-MEO networks to deliver real-time data services globally.
SES’s investment supports Lynk’s satellite expansion, ensuring seamless integration with existing telecom infrastructure. By leveraging SES’s ground and space assets, Lynk can provide scalable and cost-effective satellite connectivity for governments, emergency responders, and MNOs.
Lynk’s move towards European satellite manufacturing aligns with regional strategic interests, as sovereign space capabilities become a priority. With satellite-enabled mobile connectivity gaining momentum, the SES-Lynk collaboration positions both companies at the forefront of global D2D service deployment.
