5G-NTN architecture brings us close to ubiquitous connectivity

Commercial context

Assimilating satellite or non-terrestrial networks (NTN) into telecoms architecture is rapidly becoming a key objective for many in the communications industry. There are good reasons why - research firm Markets and Markets projects a remarkable surge in the size of this market, from US$4.2 billion in 2023 to US$23.5 billion in 2028, representing a CAGR of over 40%. The integration of satellite and cellular networks is, in some ways, the answer to truly global coverage, helping to connect many of the most remote areas of the planet, where connectivity is otherwise very limited.

Yet reaching this point is no simple feat. While the wider telecoms and NTN industries have underscored their commitments to this network advance, significant technical barriers remain. These include standardization of interfaces, protocols and data formats, all of which are necessary to enable seamless integration and interoperability between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. The industry also needs to ensure all key stakeholders are subscribed to the development of common standards and frameworks.

The solution

The Cellular to satellite communication Catalyst exists to create a unified network architecture that ensures continuous service, scalability, and ubiquity via integration of cellular and NTN networks. Underpinned by the capabilities of 5G, genAI and digital twin technology, this integration uses TM Forum's Open Digital Architecture (ODA) and a suite of standards to facilitate service orchestration and provisioning across both terrestrial and satellite networks. This solution uses a variety of TM Forum assets, including TMF 640 for service activation, TMF 641 for service ordering management, and TMF 638 for service inventory. These standards enable automated provisioning, dynamic resource allocation, and enhanced security measures. For instance, TMF 720 Digital Identity Management strengthens data security across the supply chain, ensuring authenticated access and protecting sensitive information, which is crucial for industries like pharmaceuticals that rely on safeguarding sensitive data throughout the supply chain.

The solution aligns with the comprehensive and evolving 3GPP and ETSI standards to ensure long-term interoperability and scalability. For example, the Catalyst project team incorporates 3GPP TR 36.763, which supports narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) in non-terrestrial networks, and ETSI TR 103 611, which integrates high altitude platform station (HAPS) systems. This integration enables the provision of 5G-NTN connectivity from various altitudes, facilitating service delivery across diverse and remote geographies, thereby supporting a wider range of applications.

Wider application and value

The broader implications of this integration in network architecture are profound. By fostering digital inclusion, it brings essential services like healthcare and education to underserved rural regions, opening new market opportunities and improving services such as telemedicine and agriculture. Furthermore, optimizing supply chains and reducing food waste contributes to sustainability goals, lowering the environmental impact of spoiled resources. Enhanced service continuity in remote areas ensures reliability during emergencies and natural disasters, minimizing downtime and operational disruptions. This resilience is crucial for maintaining business continuity, mitigating revenue losses, and ultimately preventing human harm.

More immediately, this Catalyst project paves the way for deeper industry-wide collaboration. By aligning the needs of chipset makers, equipment manufacturers, and integrators, it promotes a standardized approach. This is key to providing the confidence needed to begin production on the various additional infrastructure necessary for these networks. According to Vimal Mehta, Senior Technology Architect at TELUS, "the Catalyst’s standards-driven approach is exactly what the wider market needs. By adhering to 3GPP, TM Forum, MSSA, and ETSI standards, we can genuinely foster the adoption of non-terrestrial communication services. As a result, we can expect significant savings in supply chain waste and increased profitability across sectors. More than this, the project promotes digital inclusion, sustainability, and consumer trust."