ITRI Launches World-Leading Multi-Orbit 5G NTN Trials With Key Ecosystem Partners

HSINCHU, March 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- To pave the way for the deployment of the 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) standards, the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) and key eco-system partners have demonstrated the 5G air interface operating in both low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite and geostationary satellite scenarios.

Collaborating with Eutelsat, MediaTek and Airbus, ITRI launched a world-leading trial of 5G NTN technology over in-orbit operational LEO satellites, marking a breakthrough in NTN innovations. By implementing 3GPP Release 17 specifications in this trial, the 5G terminal device powered by a MediaTek NR-NTN test chip successfully connected to ITRI NTN gNB via a Ku-band Eutelsat OneWeb satellite link, exchanging traffic with a satellite built by Airbus.

Furthermore, ITRI and Chunghwa Telecom (CHT) demonstrated a world-leading 5G NTN wideband connection over GEO satellite. Leveraging CHT's commercial ST-2 satellite, the two parties jointly set up the trial environment, conducting an end-to-end bi-directional video call via Ku-band ST-2 satellite link based on 3GPP NTN specifications. The trial overcame the challenges of highly volatile GEO propagation environment and achieved up to 2bps/Hz high spectrum efficiency by integrating ITRI NTN gNB and the 5G user terminal.

These pioneering 5G NTN tests are expected to direct future satellite and terrestrial interoperability to a larger scale for greater ecosystem engagement, bringing commercial 5G broadband satellite access a step closer to the market. With the integration of 5G standards shared and accepted by the entire mobile industry, all compatible multi-orbit satellites will naturally and seamlessly complement terrestrial networks, enabling truly ubiquitous connectivity at scale and opening up new markets for smartphones, the automotive industry, and the Internet-of-Things.

"The successful demonstration of 5G multi-orbit NTN satellite connectivity using ITRI NTN gNB not only proves the flexibility and innovative design of the NTN base station but also sets the stage for the seamless convergence of NTN/TN broadband connectivity for 5G devices," said Pang-An Ting, ITRI Vice President and General Director of Information and Communications Research Laboratories. "As a pioneer in NTN connectivity solutions, we are actively contributing to the development of 5G NTN gNB and look forward to collaborating closely with industry partners to embrace new opportunities in the global NTN market."

Chung-Yung Chia, President of Chunghwa Telecom Network Technology Group, said, "With our solid capabilities in network technology and cutting-edge research, Chunghwa Telecom has been promoting satellite technology evolution and industry collaboration. We will keep working closely with government agencies, private sectors, and research institutions to integrate multi-orbit satellite resources to drive the growth of Taiwan's satellite industry."

Mingxi Fan, Senior General Manager of Wireless Technology Group at MediaTek, added, "As a global leader in terrestrial and non-terrestrial connectivity, MediaTek continues in its mission to improve lives by enabling innovative technology that connects the world around us, including remote areas with little to no cellular coverage. Through active collaboration with Taiwan global industry partners including key drivers locally in Taiwan to enable successful real-world connections with LEO satellites in orbit. We are now another step closer to bring the next generation of 3GPP-based NR-NTN satellite wideband connectivity for commercial use worldwide."

About ITRI

Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) is one of the world's leading technology R&D institutions aiming to innovate a better future for society. Founded in 1973, ITRI has played a vital role in transforming Taiwan's industries from labor-intensive into innovation-driven. To address market needs and global trends, it has launched its 2035 Technology Strategy and Roadmap that focuses on innovation development in Smart Living, Quality Health, Sustainable Environment, and Resilient Society.

Over the years, ITRI has been dedicated to incubating startups and spinoffs, including well-known names such as UMC and TSMC. In addition to its headquarters in Taiwan, ITRI has branch offices in the U.S., Germany, Japan, and Thailand in an effort to extend its R&D scope and promote international cooperation across the globe. For more information, please visit https://www.itri.org/eng.

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SOURCE Industrial Technology Research Institute