Breakthrough 5G-Advanced NR-NTN trial marks a major milestone in space-based connectivity, paving the way for global interoperability and seamless satellite-terrestrial communication.
In a historic milestone for 5G and satellite communication, the European Space Agency (ESA), MediaTek, Eutelsat, Airbus Defence and Space, Sharp, Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), and Rohde & Schwarz (R&S) have jointly demonstrated the world’s first 5G-Advanced (Rel-19) Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) connection using Eutelsat’s OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation.
The successful 5G-Advanced NR NTN trial establishes the foundation for future satellite-to-terrestrial interoperability, marking a major advancement toward seamless global broadband coverage for mobile, IoT, and enterprise networks.
The Future of Global Communication
The breakthrough test leveraged 3GPP Release 19 NR NTN standards, enabling a 50MHz Ku-band connection and successful conditional handover (CHO) between satellites. The trial utilized OneWeb’s LEO satellites, powered by MediaTek’s NR NTN chipset and ITRI’s gNB technology, in conjunction with Sharp’s flat-panel user terminal and ESA’s European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) ground infrastructure in the Netherlands.
Built on Airbus-manufactured OneWeb satellites, the system featured transparent Ku- and Ka-band transponders with Earth-moving beam technology, achieving stable broadband communication from orbit to ground.
Driving the 5G-Advanced NR NTN Ecosystem
The demonstration was supported by ESA’s Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity Programme, part of its broader mission to integrate terrestrial (TN) and non-terrestrial networks (NTN) for next-generation communication. With the global adoption of 3GPP standards, this integration will drive ubiquitous connectivity, improve network resilience, and expand 5G-Advanced applications — from smart mobility and maritime communication to telemedicine and autonomous systems.
“This trial underscores the power of collaboration in shaping the future of Europe’s satellite communications. Together, we’re building a more connected, competitive, and secure digital Europe ,” said David Phillips, Head of Systems and Technology at ESA’s Connectivity and Secure Communications Directorate.
Industry Leaders Unite for 5G-Advanced Innovation
MediaTek’s Head of Wireless Systems, Mingxi Fan, emphasized the company’s commitment to global connectivity said, “By connecting directly with Eutelsat’s LEO satellites, we are advancing real-world 5G-Advanced NR NTN wideband connectivity, bringing high-speed access to even the most remote regions.”
Airbus highlighted the adaptability of its satellite designs. “This successful demonstration of NR NTN handover capability marks a significant leap toward global broadband integration for 5G devices,” said Elodie Viau, Head of Telecom and Navigation Systems at Airbus.
Sharp, ITRI, and Rohde & Schwarz each contributed critical innovations — from user terminal design and network infrastructure to test and measurement technologies — enabling the real-time validation of 5G-Advanced over satellite with exceptional accuracy and reliability.
ESA’s Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity Programme is part of its ARTES initiative, aimed at enabling global broadband access, secure communications, and industrial transformation through space-enabled technologies. Its ECSAT 5G/6G Hub (UK) and ESTEC 5G/6G Lab (Netherlands) continue to serve as centers for testing and innovation, supporting industry leaders in advancing hybrid 5G and 6G connectivity solutions.
