Omnispace and MTN will explore integrating their satellite and terrestrial networks. Photo: Omnispace

Omnispace is collaborating with African mobile network operator MTN to explore using S-band for satellite services in MTN’s portfolio of wireless service. The companies announced the agreement on Tuesday and plan to look at integrating MTN’s terrestrial mobile networks with the Omnispace non-terrestrial (NTN) network to serve consumer mobile and enterprise IoT services. 

MTN is the largest MNO in Africa and provides voice, data, fintech, digital, enterprise, wholesale and API services to over 290 million customers in 19 countries. MTN is considering expanding its reach with satellite connectivity. 

Under the agreement, Omnispace will develop a next-generation standards-based mobile and IoT network designed to serve MTN markets. In the interim, the companies will partner to test existing technology, prove capabilities, and use cases using Omnispace’s on-orbit satellites. The companies will also consider collaborating on an ecosystem of devices and software.  

“Through this collaboration, we aim to methodically extend the reach of our services, understanding the profound role connectivity plays in shaping societies and supporting growth. Our partnership with Omnispace is a strategic step towards ensuring consistent, reliable access to our network,” said Mazen Mroué, MTN group chief technology and information officer.