Purchase: Non-Terrestrial 5G Networks and Satellite Connectivity – September 2025
Satellites are rapidly gaining prominence in the world of cellular communication. However, the full extent of their potential to complement terrestrial networks as well as phone services and broadband is still unclear. Alongside this, the cost for satellite service plans tends to be higher because of the need to purchase expensive equipment and terminals. Although uses for satellites are currently limited, this evolving industry is taking its first step toward long-term growth, similarly to the evolution of terrestrial networks.
This report draws on public information collected by GSA, focusing on announced mobile network operator and satellite provider partnerships; uses; commercial status; geographic availability; and frequency bands being earmarked for non-terrestrial network (NTN) use. As the technology advances and more partnerships are formed, the potential for satellite networks to supplement and enhance terrestrial networks will become increasingly clear. In 2023, use of satellite networks started to rise in smartphones and community and enterprise broadband. This report examines how the satellite connectivity landscape is set to evolve in the rest of 2025 and beyond.