Keysight Technologies and Sateliot to Revolutionize 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks with ESA Collaboration

In a significant stride toward enhancing the security and efficiency of satellite communication, Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) has been selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to spearhead a groundbreaking three-year project. This initiative aims to develop a blockchain-enabled framework for anomaly detection in 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN), marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of space-based communication systems.

Keysight will act as the prime contractor in this ambitious program, collaborating closely with Sateliot to facilitate essential technical developments and satellite mission integration. As satellite communication constellations proliferate, the complexity of space-based networks increases, necessitating innovative solutions to address challenges related to quality of service, operational security, and anomaly management.

As the transition to 6G approaches, the need for trusted, verifiable data becomes paramount. The integration of autonomous and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven operations in NTN environments requires robust mechanisms to ensure data integrity and security. This project is designed to establish a secure and verifiable trust framework that will be instrumental in achieving these goals.

Keysight plans to leverage its extensive expertise in design, testing, and measurement to explore the application of blockchain, AI, machine learning (ML), and digital calibration certificates throughout the entire NTN lifecycle. This encompasses every stage from satellite manufacturing and calibration to in-orbit operations and service delivery.

Albert Pujol, Chief Innovation Officer at Sateliot, expressed enthusiasm about the program, stating, “This program represents a definitive shift toward integrating space-based assets into a secure, unified 5G ecosystem. By anchoring blockchain within our orbital operations, we are creating a transparent validation layer that allows massive IoT networks to scale globally while consistently ensuring security and performance.”

Antonio Franchi, Head of the Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity programme at ESA, emphasized the project's significance for Europe's future connectivity, noting, "Supporting this project, which benefits from Keysight’s leadership and Sateliot’s expertise, underscores ESA’s commitment to helping pioneer the technologies required to safeguard the integration of non-terrestrial and terrestrial networks."

Eric Taylor, Vice President of Aerospace, Defense, and Government Solutions at Keysight, highlighted the initiative's potential impact on securing hybrid space-terrestrial networks. He remarked, “By combining test and measurement expertise with AI-driven assurance and blockchain technologies, this work will demonstrate how trust can be embedded across the full NTN lifecycle — from design and validation through in-orbit operation.”

The program's integration of advanced technologies aims to enhance the integrity and reliability of space-based IoT, 5G, and future 6G communications. This is particularly crucial given the rising threat of cyber attacks, as the framework will help protect networks from spoofing, tampering, and other security vulnerabilities.

Over the course of the program, development will transition from laboratory research and prototyping to a comprehensive in-orbit demonstration. This phase will validate the application of blockchain-anchored trust, autonomous anomaly detection, and secure telemetry in operational satellite environments.

The ESA-funded initiative is expected to not only inform future NTN operations but also bolster Europe’s position in secure satellite connectivity, paving the way for the global adoption of trusted space-based 5G and 6G networks.

As Keysight Technologies and Sateliot embark on this innovative collaboration with the European Space Agency, the implications for the future of telecommunications and satellite networks are profound. The project promises to lay the groundwork for a more secure and efficient integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial communication systems, ultimately enhancing the resilience and reliability of global connectivity.