TELCO CLOUD AND VIRTUALISATION
The telecommunications landscape is evolving, with the lines between terrestrial and satellite networks blurring to deliver on the longstanding goal of truly ubiquitous connectivity.
At the heart of the transformation are 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks( NTN), a technology set to reshape global communications. ST Engineering iDirect, a recognised provider of satellite ground infrastructure, is playing a pivotal role in advancing this shift, actively driving progress in the field.
With a rich heritage of more than 40 years in the satellite communications( satcom) sector, ST Engineering iDirect has established itself as a cornerstone of the industry. Its extensive portfolio, marketed under the trusted iDirect brand, is synonymous with high performance and reliability across critical sectors, including mobility, broadcast and government. Now, drawing on the insights of its leadership, it is championing a future built not on proprietary silos but on open standards and deep collaboration.
A paradigm shift for global connectivity For decades, the worlds of satellite and terrestrial communications have operated in parallel, often as distinct and separate ecosystems. The advent of 5G NTN, driven by the standards set out by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project( 3GPP), is set to break down the walls. By design, the framework weaves satellite capabilities directly into the fabric of the global 5G network.
Sridhar Kuppanna, CTO at ST Engineering iDirect, frames the shift as a pivotal moment for the industry.“ Until recently, satellite and terrestrial communications existed in largely separate realms, but the introduction of 5G NTN, spearheaded by the 3GPP, changes that,” he explains.“ The 5G NTN standard as defined by 3GPP allows for seamless roaming between satellite and terrestrial networks, enabling more reliable, consistent and global connectivity than ever before.”
For telcos, the integration offers a paradigm shift. It means the ability
100 August 2025