This event will dive into advancing UK connectivity by converging terrestrial and non-terrestrial communications networks. Convergence offers numerous benefits, such as high-speed data transmission, low-latency communications, and ubiquitous coverage, providing significant advantages across sectors, including improved efficiency, cost savings, and enhanced resilience. As technology evolves, network convergence will play a crucial role in enabling organizations to stay competitive and responsive to changing customer demands.
Network convergence enables the concept of 'Network of Networks,' with the integration of various types of networks such as mobile and satellite. This integration includes delivering connectivity services through a combination of terrestrial, satellite, and High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS). These advances would enable connectivity in very hard to reach areas supporting wider digital connectivity projects, such as Project Gigabit.
In this event, techUK members from across the telecoms value chain and stakeholders will have a chance to discuss the path for network convergence. It is crucial that barriers and opportunities are evaluated from multiple standpoints to solve regulatory and spectrum issues considering the growth of technologies in satellite and wireless communications.
Event details
- Date: Wednesday, 25 September
- Time: 10:00-12:00 BST
- Location: techUK office
Why Launch TN-NTN Convergence?
Converged networks enhance resilience by providing connectivity where terrestrial networks alone fall short. They increase service availability and reliability through supporting features from non-terrestrial networks, such as satellites and HAPS to terrestrial mobile connectivity. This integration will significantly transform service delivery across communications.
Network convergence also supports sustainability goals by enabling more economically and energy-efficient communication services. Additionally, satellite technology is expected to power 6G development, with convergence of spectrum and standards being a focal point in international discussions for next-generation broadband deployments.
To achieve these objectives, industry, academia, and stakeholders must collaborate to overcome the challenges of NTN and terrestrial network convergence. Within that context, orchestration between the various agents is required to ensure innovation for a wide range of wireless communications technologies.
Supercharging Use Cases Through Satellite Connectivity
Converged networks play a crucial role in enhancing coverage in remote areas and increasing network resilience. They support various sectors, from health and social care to public safety operations, by meeting the growing demand for digital connectivity from both consumers and businesses.
In the transportation sector, convergence will impact the autonomous vehicle market and improve safety and customer experience in rail services.
For utilities, converged networks allow for the measurement of emissions and energy efficiency, and support the deployment of IoT devices, significantly enhancing automation and operational intelligence.
In healthcare, converged networks facilitate telemedicine by integrating video, voice, and data, enabling remote diagnosis and consultation, and extending healthcare access to remote areas, thereby improving patient care.
For Defence and public safety operations, converged networks offer considerable benefits, such as dual-use potential and improved control over critical communications interference. They also ensure quality service for emergency services, enabling real-time coordination in scenarios with limited infrastructure where information sharing is crucial.
Next Steps for the Industry
As direct-to-device technology gains popularity in the satellite market, companies are leveraging S- and L-band spectrum allocated to Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) to enhance connectivity.
Experimental systems have sparked debates on potential harmful RF interference in other countries and the regulatory status of using terrestrial spectrum for satellite services, with discussions at WRC23 deferred to WRC 2027.
The market potential for these services is significant, and therefore discussions between industry and stakeholders needs to expand beyond the existing capabilities to achieve the full potential for the UK industry.
Contact us
To learn more about memberhsip and how to engage with all techUK opporutnities, please contact the team below or reach out to [email protected]
Jaynesh Patel
Jaynesh Patel is Head of Telecoms and Spectrum Policy, leading the Communications Infrastructure and Services Programme at techUK and overseeing the UK Spectrum Policy Forum.
Josh Turpin
Josh joined techUK as a Programme Manager for Telecoms and Net Zero in August 2024.
Tales Gaspar
Tales has a background in law and economics, with previous experience in the regulation of new technologies and infrastructure.
Matthew Wild
Matthew joined techUK in August 2023 as a Programme Assistant, supporting the Communications Infrastructure programme, as well as the Digital Connectivity and Spectrum Policy Fora.
