The INT3000 is being developed to support 5G New Radio Non-Terrestrial Network and DVB-S2X/MRC waveforms. Its multi-waveform design would allow operators to deploy native 5G NR-NTN services while retaining DVB and hybrid network architectures during migration and modernisation.
That dual capability addresses the transition between the satellite industry’s installed infrastructure and its move towards the wider 5G ecosystem. ST Engineering iDirect is positioning the modem as a way for operators to adopt new network standards without abandoning existing technology investments.
The pilot was demonstrated through a satellite simulator and connected on the network side to Intuition, ST Engineering iDirect’s cloud-native, multi-orbit ground system. Intuition provided the native 5G NR-NTN gNodeB capabilities used during the demonstration.
“This pilot demonstration is another important step in our multi-waveform, multi-orbit user equipment roadmap,” said Shravan Gaddam, Vice President, CTO Office, ST Engineering iDirect. “The industry is moving toward standards-based 5G NTN connectivity, but at the same time, operators must support existing satellite networks.”
“Our vision for the INT3000 modem is to bring these worlds together in a single user equipment, providing a practical path for operators to evolve their networks while leveraging existing investments,” Gaddam said. The modem is intended to support that transition within one product rather than through separate user terminals for different waveforms.
The pilot provides a foundation for extending ST Engineering iDirect’s satellite-networking capabilities into the broader 5G market. It combines the technology, industry partnerships and product framework needed to support future interoperability between satellite and terrestrial communications networks.
ST Engineering iDirect is also advancing 5G NR waveform technologies intended to reduce dependence on Global Navigation Satellite Systems and satellite-position data for timing and synchronisation. The company said the changes are designed to improve resilience and operational flexibility across multi-orbit satellite environments.
The INT3000 pilot forms part of a wider product strategy built around the Intuition ground system. ST Engineering iDirect said the development supports the industry’s move towards globally interoperable 5G NTN satellite connectivity and future 6G networks.
