Inmarsat Takes on Musk and OneWeb With New Satellite Network
- Operator reveals plan to add 5G and at least 150 satellites
- Joins wave of investment in 5G and low-earth orbit spacecraft
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Inmarsat Group Holdings Ltd., the U.K.’s biggest satellite company, plans to launch a constellation of low-earth orbit spacecraft and set up 5G wireless networks, joining a new space race against the likes of Elon Musk.
The project, called Orchestra, will create a hybrid network of the company’s existing geostationary satellite technology, land-based 5G networks and low-earth orbit satellites, Inmarsat Chief Executive Officer Rajeev Suri said in an interview. The system will provide next-generation 5G service in high-demand areas like ports, and add speed and capacity at digital choke points as data use soars.