Telkomsat and Univity Explore Next-Generation Satellite Development

PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia (Telkomsat) has entered into a strategic partnership with Univity, a space-based connectivity infrastructure provider. The collaboration was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as an initial step to explore the development of next-generation satellite connectivity solutions in Indonesia. Through this partnership, the two companies will examine various opportunities for utilising satellite technology, including Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) architecture and Direct-to-Device services, to support growing connectivity demands. The discussions will also cover the utilisation of space-based network capabilities owned by each company. The MoU also serves as an initial commitment to explore strengthening a more independent national satellite connectivity infrastructure. One aspect to be evaluated is the integration of earth station infrastructure in Indonesia with future VLEO satellite constellations. Additionally, Telkomsat and Univity will study the development of a hybrid multi-orbit architecture, combining the reliability of Telkomsat’s geostationary satellites with Univity’s VLEO system. This approach is expected to deliver connectivity services that are more reliable, adaptive, and suited to national needs, including support for the public sector and national security applications. Telkomsat’s Director of Development, Anggoro K Widiawan, stated that satellite connectivity continues to play a vital role in expanding digital access, particularly in areas difficult to reach by terrestrial networks. ‘Satellite connectivity continues to play an important role in supporting Indonesia’s digital ecosystem, especially in remote and geographically dispersed areas. Through this MoU with Univity, we hope to explore how evolving satellite architectures and future non-terrestrial network capabilities can contribute to addressing the growing connectivity needs across Indonesia,’ he said. As a national satellite operator, Telkomsat has experience in integrating satellite communication services and terrestrial networks through its satellite support, earth stations, operational capabilities, and understanding of regulations in Indonesia. Meanwhile, Univity Founder and CEO Charles Delfieux assessed that Indonesia has significant potential for developing space-based connectivity integrated with terrestrial telecommunication networks. ‘Indonesia is one of the most dynamic connectivity markets in the world, with opportunities for convergence between terrestrial and space-based networks. Through this MoU with Telkomsat, we hope to explore how future satellite connectivity solutions can complement existing infrastructure and support new applications over time,’ he said. Univity is currently developing a VLEO constellation that utilises operators’ 5G spectrum to deliver high-speed, low-latency connectivity services as a complement to terrestrial networks. Through this partnership, both companies hope to accelerate the development of a hybrid multi-orbit connectivity ecosystem while opening opportunities for utilising next-generation satellite technology to expand communication access in Indonesia.