Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile are launching a new EU satellite constellation with a European Sovereign Satellite Operations Centre in Germany (Munich or Hannover). The joint venture, SatCo, will deliver ubiquitous, secure mobile broadband across Europe starting in 2026, boosting digital sovereignty and critical disaster relief efforts via direct-to-smartphone connectivity.

5G NTN modems are rapidly moving from backhaul tools to frontline enablers of multi-domain operations. From convoy V2X to airborne ISR downlinks, these systems are reshaping how modern militaries fight, communicate, and maneuver in contested environments.

The Mobile Satellite Services Association (MSSA) has released a new Reference Architecture offering strategic recommendations to accelerate global Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) integration. The framework outlines key technologies, interoperability guidelines, and high-impact use cases designed to support secure, reliable, and 3GPP-aligned satellite-to-terrestrial connectivity worldwide.

At Space Tech Expo Europe 2025, I saw an industry under pressure but filled with opportunity. Upstream R&D is shrinking, downstream applications are underdeveloped, and defense is becoming the stabilizing force across the space ecosystem. Despite the challenges, the sector is entering a more strategic and sustainable era.

IonQ is expanding its quantum leadership with the acquisition of Skyloom Global, bringing advanced space-based optical communications into its growing full-stack quantum ecosystem. Backed by $3.5B in funding, IonQ aims to build a global quantum key distribution platform linking ground and satellite networks for secure, planet-scale connectivity.

Amazon’s shift from Project Kuiper to Amazon Leo marks a strategic leap in the LEO broadband race. With more than 150 satellites in orbit and major enterprise partnerships forming, the rebrand reflects a sharpened focus on value creation, downstream market capture, and global growth.