An example scenario where this solution shows its value could be that of a remote location with no internet connectivity. The collaborators have demonstrated that a light, portable, 5G private network system can be deployed to provide high-quality local private communications service to 5G connected devices at that location, and connecting over the NTN link to a public 5G Control Plane and then to the wider internet.
In these trials, the team successfully validated the smooth transition between mobile and satellite access, by using 3GPP’s Advanced Traffic Steering-Switching-Splitting (ATSSS) technology, for ensuring uninterrupted 5G service.
Manuel Lorenzo, Head of Technology and Innovation, Ericsson Spain, says: “At 5TONIC lab, Ericsson has achieved a major milestone, in collaboration with Grupo Oesía and UC3M, demonstrating how a portable gNodeB can utilize Non-Terrestrial Networks as backhaul for delivering 5G services in remote areas where only satellite coverage is available. This pioneering integration also allows for a seamless transition between mobile and satellite access, for maintaining continuous operation in 5G networks in many scenarios.”
Daniel Segovia, from the Signal Theory and Communications Department at UC3M, says: “This collaboration demonstrates the potential of Non-Terrestrial Networks, especially in remote or devastated areas, to expand 5G connectivity beyond traditional infrastructures. The success of this initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration between academia and industry in advancing next-generation communication technologies".
María Graña, Director of Technology in Inster-Grupo Oesía, says: “Inster, the company hyper-specialized in Satellite Broadband technology of Grupo Oesía, has developed an advanced satellite terminal with electronic steering antenna in Ku band that operates in Eutelsat OneWeb LEO constellation. With this collaborative work with Ericsson and Universidad Carlos III de Madrid we have been able to demonstrate the integration of this portable LEO satellite terminal with the remote gNodeB, providing the necessary backhaul to maintain 5G communications, which represents a significant achievement for satellite communications.”
This project, part of the Spanish UNICO 5G R&D program and supported by NextGenerationEU funds, underscores the potential for 5G and NTN integration to enhance connectivity in underserved regions. Ericsson provided the 5G infrastructure, Grupo Oesía developed advanced satellite terminals, and UC3M coordinated the effort.
