This innovative strategic partnership aims to integrate Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellites as a complementary solution to terrestrial infrastructure. The objective is to provide telecom operators with hybrid and resilient connectivity, capable of meeting the growing demand for high-speed, low-latency internet—particularly in remote areas or during major disasters.
Combining Space and Terrestrial Infrastructure for Resilient Connectivity
This agreement brings together CTO’s expertise in developing a VLEO satellite constellation using telecom operators’ 5G millimeter wave (mmWave) spectrum with TDF’s know-how in managing secure terrestrial infrastructure. Together, TDF and CTO reaffirm their commitment to addressing evolving market needs and actively contributing to the vision of universal connectivity.
A Shared Vision: Building Hybrid Telecom Networks
The convergence of terrestrial and space-based connectivity is creating new opportunities for telecom operators. CTO offers an innovative solution with a shared, neutral, space-based infrastructure in Very Low Earth Orbit, eliminating the need for each telecom operator to make heavy space investments to expand network coverage.
This system allows operators to leverage their own 5G mmWave spectrum to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet from space—just as they do today with terrestrial networks—including in rural, remote, or underserved regions. This breakthrough marks a shift from proprietary constellations launched by new entrants, providing telecom operators with a competitive solution to seize new market opportunities driven by space-based connectivity.
With this shared vision, TDF has partnered with CTO to enhance its portfolio of solutions and integrate terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), offering innovative and resilient connectivity solutions.
A Technological Partnership for the Future of Telecom
The alliance between CTO and TDF is built on strong technological and industrial complementarity. CTO is pioneering a breakthrough with its Very Low Earth Orbit satellites using 5G mmWave spectrum, enabling high-speed, low-latency internet access from space. Meanwhile, TDF contributes extensive infrastructure, expertise in hosting telecom sites, antenna management, and network operations. Additionally, TDF is supporting CTO in testing and validating 5G NTN millimeter wave frequencies to optimize satellite and terrestrial network integration.
The agreement also includes the development of satellite-based emergency connectivity solutions to ensure communication continuity during natural disasters or major crises. These solutions, leveraging inter-satellite links, will provide critical transmissions even if ground-based relay antennas are damaged in disaster-stricken areas.
Driving Innovation in Space-Based Internet Access
Charles Delfieux, CEO and Founder of CTO, stated: "Space-based internet access is the next frontier for telecom operators. This partnership with TDF is a strategic milestone that perfectly aligns with our ambition to converge and integrate terrestrial and space networks. Together, we are bringing an innovative solution to telecom operators, allowing them to expand their coverage and ensure resilient connectivity in all circumstances."
Roland Chedlivili, Co-Managing Director of TDF’s TowerCo Business Unit, added: "With this partnership, TDF is taking a significant step forward by integrating space-based innovations into its connectivity expertise. Alongside CTO, we are exploring the synergies between terrestrial and satellite networks to offer ever more efficient solutions to our clients and support French innovation. This collaboration reflects a shared ambition: to transform the telecommunications landscape and pave the way for universal, high-performance, and accessible connectivity."
