Telkomsat and UNIVITY Explore VLEO and Direct-to-Device Technology Development in Indonesia
Jakarta (ANTARA) – PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia (Telkomsat), the Telkom Group satellite operator, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UNIVITY, a company providing space-based connectivity infrastructure for telecommunications operators.
The partnership marks an initial step for Telkomsat and UNIVITY to explore various collaboration opportunities and develop satellite-based connectivity solutions to support Indonesia’s telecommunications needs.
The two companies will study potential uses of satellite connectivity, including Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) architecture and future Direct-to-Device services. The collaboration will be directed towards leveraging the space-based network capabilities and advantages held by both companies.
The MoU also reflects a joint commitment to exploring the strengthening of sovereign satellite connectivity for Indonesia. One aspect to be examined is the use of domestically located ground station infrastructure integrated with a future VLEO constellation.
Telkomsat and UNIVITY will also evaluate the potential development of a hybrid multi-orbit architecture, integrating the reliability of Telkomsat’s geostationary satellite network with the VLEO system developed by UNIVITY. The integration is intended to deliver connectivity solutions that are secure, resilient, adaptive and suited to national needs, including supporting public sector priorities and national security applications.
“Satellite connectivity continues to play an important role in supporting Indonesia’s digital ecosystem, particularly in remote and geographically dispersed regions. Through this MoU with UNIVITY, we hope to explore how evolving satellite architectures and future non-terrestrial network capabilities can contribute to meeting the growing connectivity needs across Indonesia,” said Telkomsat Director of Development Anggoro K. Widiawan.
As the national satellite operator, Telkomsat has the capability to integrate satellite and terrestrial communication services, supported by its satellite assets, ground station infrastructure, operational expertise and understanding of national regulations.
“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 a range of new applications over time,” said UNIVITY Founder and CEO Charles Delfieux.
Through the development of a Very Low Earth Orbit constellation utilising 5G spectrum owned by telecommunications operators, UNIVITY is developing high-speed, low-latency connectivity as a complement to terrestrial networks.
The partnership is expected to strengthen the development of hybrid multi-orbit connectivity while opening up opportunities for future satellite technology applications.