MSSA and 5GAA Agree to Collaborate in Driving Integration of Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Networks

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Heather Chesterman or Mary Placido
Inventures for the Mobile Satellite Services Association (MSSA)
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5GAA
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marcom@5gaa.org

The Mobile Satellite Services Association (MSSA) and the 5G Automotive Association (5GAA) are pleased to announce an alliance to advance global collaboration in the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), particularly focusing on Direct-to-Device (D2D) and IoT services. This collaboration underscores both organizations’ commitment to expanding the reach of mobile connectivity and addressing future mobility and transportation needs.

The collaboration agreement, signed today, establishes a framework for cooperation in areas such as technological research and development, spectrum management, and the integration of satellite and cellular networks. It combines 5GAA’s leadership in automotive connectivity and MSSA’s expertise in standards-based, open architecture NTNs (or satellite networks) that augment and extend the reach of terrestrial mobile networks while respecting and complying with the unique and disparate telecom regulatory frameworks of nations worldwide.

Mark Dankberg, Chairman of MSSA, commented on the collaboration:

“This alliance addresses one of the largest target markets for NTN augmentation of mobile networks and the automotive industry’s demand for standards-based, open architecture solutions enabled by a 5G ecosystem including licensed satellite spectrum holders. Together, MSSA and 5GAA will play a crucial role in augmenting the coverage and capacity of terrestrial networks while also enhancing aspects such as safety, operating efficiency, convenience and entertainment. And, MSSA is directly addressing not only the technical solutions, but also a regulatory framework that will enable those solutions on a global basis. This is an exciting development for the future of both the satellite industry and the automotive industry.”

Johannes Springer, Director General of 5GAA, added:

“The collaboration with MSSA is a pivotal moment for the advancement of ubiquitous connected mobility. By making non-terrestrial networks interworking with our cellular technology, we can create more resilient, scalable solutions that meet the growing demand for safer, more efficient transportation systems. This alliance strengthens our ability to innovate and address critical challenges in connected and autonomous driving, road safety, and intelligent traffic management on a global scale.”

The agreement highlights both organizations’ shared vision of creating efficient, scalable, standards-based, open architecture solutions while supporting a varied and disparate global regulatory framework. The collaboration will also focus on augmenting next-generation communication technologies, including Cellular-V2X, which will enable advanced road safety applications and connected mobility solutions for a global audience. The integration of non-terrestrial networks with automotive services is expected to enhance innovations such as autonomous driving and intelligent traffic management.

MSSA and 5GAA will work closely together to share knowledge, coordinate technical and regulatory activities, and support the development of new applications for both automotive and broader mobile markets.

About MSSA

The Mobile Satellite Services Association (MSSA) advances the development of direct-to-device (D2D) and IoT connectivity through an ecosystem of Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) providers that are committed to seamlessly extending mobile coverage globally. Founding members Viasat, Terrestar Solutions, Ligado Networks, Omnispace and Yahsat support a vision focused on facilitating the integration and evolution of terrestrial and satellite mobile networks to deliver scalable, sustainable, and affordable high-performance cellular-like services to any device, anytime, anywhere in the world. To support this rapidly emerging market, the non-profit association will work to ensure MSS L- and S-band operators play a central role in facilitating the future of a robust and competitive D2D services market. Through the coordinated deployment of technical standards and enhancement of regulatory frameworks, the MSSA drives new initiatives to foster support for MSS-based services leveraging the 3GPP mobile standards. For more information, visit our About page, sign up for our Interest List, and follow us on LinkedIn.

About 5GAA

The 5G Automotive Association (5GAA) is a global, cross-industry organization of over 120 members, including leading global automakers, Tier-1 suppliers, mobile operators, semiconductor companies, and test equipment vendors. 5GAA members work together to develop end-to-end solutions for future mobility and transport services. 5GAA is committed to helping define and develop the next generation of connected mobility, automated vehicles, and intelligent transport solutions based on C-V2X. For more information, visit our website.

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