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Singapore - Hybrid Satellite-Terrestrial Networks: The Next Resilience Layer

  • Writer: Bridge Connect
    Bridge Connect
  • Sep 8, 2025
  • 2 min read

Executive summary

A multi‑year MoU between IMDA, OSTIn, and Airbus aims to identify and develop 5G/6G NTN solutions that integrate with terrestrial networks. This complements the nation’s broader push on resilient connectivity and green compute. For boards, the move turns NTN from hype into a road‑mapped capability with trials that can inform procurement and standards.


Why hybrid matters (operationally)

  • Continuity. Seamless service when terrestrial links are degraded (storms, fibre cuts, power issues).

  • Coverage. Maritime/aviation/public safety users gain reach without juggling device types.

  • Standards & devices. 3GPP NTN features push into mainstream chipsets and radios over the next release cycles.


What to trial first (12 months)

  1. Public safety. Incident‑scene bubbles with backhaul via LEO/GEO; failover rules; priority profiles.

  2. Ports & shipping. Automated handover across harbour Wi‑Fi/private 5G/NTN; container telemetry and crew welfare comms.

  3. Airports & airlines. Gate‑to‑gate connectivity pilots; ground‑to‑air NTN for ops data; roaming policy tests.


Policy, spectrum, and billing

  • Spectrum. Map NTN bands and device RF constraints; lab‑test interference and emissions; coordinate with aviation/maritime regulators.

  • Policy. Define when NTN is primary vs. fallback; how billing shifts between layers; how to enforce fair use.

  • Emergency use. Document emergency call/SOS behaviour; ensure customer comms are unambiguous.


Architecture blueprint

  • Core integration. Treat NTN as another access into the 5G core; normalise policy, authentication, and charging.

  • App‑aware routing. Direct performance‑sensitive flows via terrestrial where available; default bulk telemetry to NTN.

  • Security. Preserve end‑to‑end encryption; validate lawful intercept in mixed domains.


Board actions

  1. Fund NTN integration pilots with port/aviation/public‑safety partners.

  2. Establish policy & billing rules for hybrid fallback and roaming.

  3. Build a device certification matrix and publish it to customers and partners.

  4. Update BCP/DR to include NTN as a required layer for critical operations.

  5. Engage insurers to recognise resilience credits for hybrid‑ready operations.


Board conclusion

Singapore is building the testbed and policy muscle for hybrid satellite–terrestrial networks. Be a design partner now—so that when hybrid goes mainstream, you own the playbook and the customer relationships.

 
 
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