The new entity brings together advanced 5G NTN software and long-standing network expertise to strengthen interoperability and pave the way for next-generation 5G and 6G satellite connectivity.
Cobham Satcom has announced a major strategic merger between Gatehouse Satcom and its own Network Division, a move designed to speed the satellite industrys transition to standardised 5G-based connectivity across commercial, government, defense, and emerging direct-to-device markets.
The new entity formed by combining Gatehouse Satcom and the Network Division of Cobham Satcom will operate as a subsidiary within the Cobham Satcom Group. Kenney Schmidt Christiansen, current CEO of Gatehouse Satcom, will continue as CEO for the new, merged entity. Its mission will be to deliver integrated 5G NTN network solutions that strengthen interoperability and enable next generation satellite connectivity.
Kenney Schmidt Christiansen, CEO, Gatehouse Satcom, said: “Joining forces with Cobham Satcom gives us the scale and talent to accelerate our ambitions. Together, we will continue developing world-class 5G NTN software and hardware for commercial, government, and defense customers, now in an even stronger structure supported by Cobham Satcoms operational scale and network expertise.”
The joint entity brings together Cobham Satcoms heritage in radio access network platforms and ground infrastructure, with Gatehouse Satcoms cutting-edge 5G NTN software capabilities. It will develop the 3GPP-compatible 5G NTN software that Gatehouse Satcom has already proven in LEO, MEO, and GEO, meeting the fast-growing market needs for satellite operators to provide 5G-NTN-based stand-alone or coexisting legacy services.
With renewed investment, expanded capabilities and a unified innovation roadmap, the new entity will maintain the existing product portfolio and expand next generation 5G/6G NTN connectivity solutions to enable our customers to serve maritime, defense, IoT, enterprise and direct-to-device markets worldwide.
Cobham Satcom will hold the majority share of the new entity and will continue serving its core maritime, government and enterprise markets, providing satellite communication offerings and products through its trusted SAILOR, Sea Tel, EXPLORER, and TRACKER brands.
Christophe Duret, CEO of Cobham Satcom, said, added: “This acquisition creates significant strategic opportunities as the satellite communications industry undergoes rapid transformation. By merging our Network Divisions decades of expertise with Gatehouse Satcoms groundbreaking 5G NTN capabilities, were strengthening our technology roadmap and providing satellite operators and service providers with an unmatched end-to-end platform to support their transition to 5G NTN.”
The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals.
