5G satellite networks to generate $17 bn additional revenue for telcos over next seven years: Juniper Research

Telecom operators are projected to generate $17 billion of additional revenue from 3GPP-compliant 5G satellite networks between 2024-2030, according to the latest forecast by Juniper Research released Monday.

The research firm has urged telcos to partner with satellite network operators which will enable the former to launch monetisable satellite-based 5G services to their subscribers. Satellite network operators, it said, possess the capabilities to launch next-generation satellite hardware into space, as well as being responsible for the operation and management of the resulting networks.

Juniper Research expects the first commercial launch of a 5G satellite network to occur in 2024, with over 110 million 3GPP compliant 5G satellite connections in operation by 2030.

To capitalise on this growth, the research firm has urged telcos to prioritise immediate partnerships with satellite network operators that can launch GSO (Geostationary Orbit) satellites.

Additionally, it suggested that telcos must leverage their pre-existing billing relationship with mobile subscribers and enterprises as a platform to grow 5G satellite connectivity revenue over the next seven years.

However, the research firm also predicted that operators will increasingly rely on satellite network operators for service provision as 6G development accelerates.

“Operators must not only think of 5G satellite services when choosing an SNO partner, but also the forward plan for 6G networks, including coverage and throughput capabilities,” said Research author Sam Barker.