Satellite operator Intelsat has joined mobile operator association GSMA to help advance 5G deployments through the closer integration of satellite and terrestrial networking technologies.
Intelsat is now a full member of the GSMA. The association's member base now represents more than 750 operators, as well as 350 companies from adjacent industries such as handset, device and equipment providers and internet companies.
In announcing its membership in the industry body, Intelsat said the development of fully integrated hybrid satellite and terrestrial networks will be essential to meeting the exponential growth in demand for bandwidth, which will only escalate in the 4G era.
“As 5G comes to market, we must capitalize on the strengths of multiple delivery technologies to satiate the connectivity demands of businesses and communities around the world,” Intelsat VP and GM for networks Jean-Philippe Gillet said.
“By joining the GSMA, we will continue to forge new working relationships and develop business models that accelerate the expansion of more powerful mobile networks. We will collaborate even more closely with companies across the mobile ecosystem and build innovative partnerships that incorporate the complementary strengths of satellite and terrestrial technologies and create the hybrid networks that advance the cost-effective deployment of mobile connectivity around the world.”