Breakthrough in Satellite 5G International Team Demonstrates First Cross Country 5G Connection via GEO Satellite

Published: 28 May 2025

Author: Precedence Research

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In May 2025,

In an important first, a team of leading global tech companies and academics has demonstrated a 5G link using a GEO satellite. The research project was jointly introduced at the World Expo 2025 Singapore Pavilion in Osaka, Japan, by SUTD together with SKY Perfect JSAT, TMYTEK, Rohde & Schwarz, and VIAVI Solutions. The demonstration revealed that with 5G NTN satellite technology, people in the most remote places, even in Antarctica, soon benefit from ordinary mobile communications.

During the experiment, the team successfully directed a 5G signal from Singapore to a JSAT satellite in space before it ended up in a 5G network in Japan, which is the first for such a connection. With this successful test, satellite and ground networks will be joined to provide seamless future communication. The use of an electronically steered antenna (ESA) as a demonstration enabled significant progress in autonomous vehicles, marine communication, and responding to global needs. Furthermore, this teamwork demonstrates that in 6G and beyond, networks via satellites play a major role in worldwide communications.

Future Aspects of This Breakthrough

• Anywhere Connectivity: Regular mobile phones may soon connect to 5G networks even in remote locations like deserts, oceans, or Antarctica—no need for satellite phones.
• First Cross-Border 5G via Satellite: Successfully sent a 5G signal from Singapore to Japan through a geostationary satellite, proving cross-country satellite communication is possible.
• Step Toward 6G Networks: The project supports global plans for 6G, where satellite (NTN) and land-based (TN) networks will work together to offer uninterrupted coverage worldwide.
• Use of Electronically Steered Antennas (ESA): These allow faster, smarter satellite tracking, ideal for moving vehicles, ships, or even drones, making real-time data transfer possible.
• Global Tech Leadership: Positions Singapore and its partners as leaders in future communications technology, boosting research, innovation, and digital sovereignty.