Skövde-based Forsway, a Swedish company providing end-to-end satellite communication solutions, has secured €2.3M in funding from the European Space Agency (ESA), supported by the Swedish National Space Agency (SNSA), to develop Xtend 5G.
Antonio Franchi, ESA Head of the 5G/6G NTN Programme Office, says, “We believe hybrid communication technologies that integrate satellite, 5G NTN and mobile networks will play an important role in future connectivity ecosystems.”
“ESA is interested in supporting private sector companies that can enhance ground segments for future satellite systems in Europe and boost regional capacity with comprehensive, dual-use technology and highly dependable connectivity. We are pleased to support Forsway in this unique project with funding, guidance, and expertise.”
What will Xtend 5G offer?
This next-generation hybrid connectivity system will integrate satellite and terrestrial networks, offering two-way communication.
Aimed at sectors such as government, defence, emergency services, and critical infrastructure, Xtend 5G will provide reliable connectivity in both open and closed networks, ensuring accessibility and full control regardless of location.
Tobias Forsell, CEO at Forsway, says, “We are thrilled to launch this exciting partnership with ESA & SNSA. The new communication system will be a highly beneficial tool for security, government organisations, the energy sector and others demanding secure, robust, and fast communication where full control over the connectivity ecosystem is crucial. Xtend 5G can be employed in an open or closed network format.”
“To meet the strict requirements of government and public agencies, we will offer a highly customisable and fully secure solution to address their needs. Additionally, Xtend 5G will provide a robust backup connection for critical infrastructure installations that may be vulnerable due to geographical location,” adds Forsell.
The Xtend 5G system, co-funded by ESA’s ARTES 4.0 Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity programme, will offer an independent connectivity solution for satellite platforms. It is designed to serve as a primary connection or backup for critical systems. Its white-label design allows integration with various security solutions.
Forsway’s cost-effective satellite solutions for underserved markets
Founded in 2003, Forsway is a technology company specialising in broadband connectivity. It has unveiled solutions that combine satellite and existing telecom networks to address the lack of reliable internet access in underserved areas. These solutions target diverse applications, including defence communication and providing educational content to rural schools.
By eliminating the need for additional infrastructure, Forsway’s technology offers time and cost savings for service providers. A key innovation is the Forsway Xtend ecosystem, a hybrid satellite extension toolkit designed to reduce the traditionally high costs of connecting remote markets.
Xtend simplifies the deployment of satellite broadband in regions with limited infrastructure, enabling operators to utilise unused bandwidth effectively.
With a focus on rural areas in both emerging and established markets, the solution aims to expand connectivity while addressing challenges of affordability and complexity.
Brief about ESA’s Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity programme
The European Space Agency (ESA) is advancing 5G and 6G technologies through its “Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity” programme, integrating satellite and ground networks to enhance mobility, global coverage, security, and network resilience.
This initiative supports applications like telemedicine, tele-education, and autonomous transport while promoting standardised global connectivity. Key hubs include the ECSAT 5G/6G Hub in the UK and the ESTEC Telecom Lab in the Netherlands, providing innovation and testing facilities.
Part of the Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) programme, the initiative aims to deliver secure communication worldwide under ESA’s Connectivity and Secure Communications directorate.
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