SNS JU and ESA Join Forces to Accelerate the Integration of Satellite Networks in 6G
Strategic partnership opens new era of collaboration for ubiquitous connectivity in Europe
Brussels/Paris, 16 October 2025
The Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU) and the European Space Agency (ESA) have officially signed a Memorandum of Intent (MoI), marking a pivotal moment in European cooperation on next-generation connectivity. This strategic partnership aims to bring mobile and satellite network players together to enhance research and development and accelerate innovation in the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks for 6G.
The collaboration will provide ubiquitous, seamless, resilient, and high-quality connectivity tailored to industry sectors and citizens across Europe, strengthening the continent’s position in the global telecommunications landscape.
Bridging Space and Ground Networks
By combining SNS JU’s expertise in advanced network technologies with ESA’s world-class space infrastructure, the MoI will focus on several key activities designed to drive 6G innovation and enhance technological sovereignty.
Large-Scale 6G Terrestrial/Non-Terrestrial Network Trials
The partnership will undertake comprehensive trials of TN/NTN connectivity for critical industries including mobility, utilities, agriculture, and media, as well as mobile broadband services for citizens throughout Europe. These extensive trials will generate valuable data, performance benchmarks, and insights to improve interoperability while informing global standards for integrated connectivity through active collaboration with industry stakeholders and standardisation bodies.
Access to Advanced Testing Facilities
SNS JU 6G projects will gain unprecedented access to ESA’s state-of-the-art ground and in-orbit laboratories, including the ESA 5G/6G Hub and the 5G/6G Telecom Lab. Additionally, ESA’s planned advanced demonstration satellites will provide the foundation of an in-orbit laboratory for TN/NTN system and services testing, offering unique opportunities for real-world validation of innovative solutions in space.
Knowledge Exchange and Joint Innovation
The collaboration will facilitate a seamless flow of knowledge, technical expertise, and best practices between the two organizations. The partnership will explore groundbreaking 6G use cases in connected mobility, edge computing, and enhanced network resilience, maximizing the potential of integrated terrestrial and satellite networks. This approach aims to identify and develop natively integrated TN/NTN 6G applications that will define the future of global communications.
A Vision for Europe’s Digital Future
“6G connectivity will be both terrestrial and through space.” stated Thibaut Kleiner, Director for Future Networks in DG Connect, “Congratulations to the SNS JU and to ESA for signing the Memorandum. It will help secure European technological leadership at the forefront of 6G development and help our telecom and space communities to work and experiment together and build new services that will benefit our industries and our citizens.”
Laurent Jaffart, Director of ESA’s Connectivity and Secure Communications said: “Our ambition at ESA is to ensure that everyone is connected, everywhere, and at all times; the fusion between networks in space and on the ground is a key ingredient to truly serve the connectivity needs of our Member States. By joining forces with key partners such as SNS JU, we are continuing to strengthen Europe’s autonomy and resilience, whilst boosting the continent’s competitiveness and growth. I look forward to the opportunity of pooling our expertise and resources, as we work together to elevate Europe on the global stage – and into the future of 6G.”
“The collaboration between ESA and the SNS JU to accelerate truly ubiquitous 6G – integrating space and terrestrial networks – is an important step towards our mission to facilitate European technology sovereignty in 6G. This Memorandum paves they way for new opportunities for SNS JU’s 6G projects to access ESA’s cutting-edge ground and in-orbit laboratories to conduct extensive testing and trials with 6G terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. I am particularly excited that this initiative will engage SMEs, researchers involved in our projects, and key industrial sectors– supporting innovation and competitiveness. I look forward to the transformative impact that this partnership will have on our collective journey into the future of connectivity.” confirmed Erzsébet Fitori, Executive Director, SNS JU.
The collaboration will facilitate knowledge exchange, resource pooling, and the development of open industry standards, contributing to the deployment of robust next-generation communication technologies that will support Europe’s sovereignty and digital future.
This partnership between SNS JU and ESA underscores both organisations’ dedication to bolstering Europe’s technological resilience and competitiveness in the emerging 6G arena. By uniting the mobile and satellite network communities, SNS JU and ESA aim to accelerate innovation and ensure Europe leads the development of integrated terrestrial and non-terrestrial network solutions that will connect citizens, industries, and communities across the continent and beyond.
