3GPP NTN, stands for 3rd Generation Partnership Project Non-Terrestrial Networks. This term is associated with the integration of satellite communication into mobile networks.
3GPP is the standards organisation that defines protocols for mobile telecommunications, including 3G, 4G (LTE), and 5G. Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) refers to networks that involve communication with devices via non-terrestrial platforms, such as:
- Satellites (e.g., Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), or Geostationary Orbit (GEO)). See our article on Leo, Meo & Geo
- High-Altitude Platforms (HAPs) like balloons or drones
Why is 3GPP NTN Important?
NTNs aim to provide connectivity in areas where traditional terrestrial networks (cell towers) are impractical, such as:
- Remote or rural regions
- Oceanic areas
- Disaster zones with damaged infrastructure
With NTN, devices like smartphones, IoT devices, movable assets and even vehicles can maintain connectivity via satellites.
Key Applications of 3GPP NTN:
- Global Coverage: Extending network services to unserved or underserved areas.
- Disaster Recovery: Providing connectivity in emergencies when terrestrial networks are down.
- IoT Integration: Enabling IoT devices (like sensors) to operate in remote areas.
- Maritime and Aviation Connectivity: Asset tracking for containers and small vessels, connectivity for buoys and environmental monitoring
Some key considerations for 3GPP NTN satellite IoT connectivity:
- Strong growth for asset tracking devices – according to a recent Beecham Report CAGR 17.6% until 2030 with 4.5 billion devices in 2023 increasing to 14.0 billion by 2030.
- Wide diversity of asset types – with a wide variety of challenges.
- Data security is increasingly important.
PLUS Power consumption needs to be low . . .
Status in 3GPP Standards:
3GPP started integrating NTN features in Release 17 (completed in 2022), focusing on satellite-based 5G communication. Future releases, like Release 18, will likely expand and refine NTN capabilities.