SES and K2 Space have announced a strategic collaboration to develop SES's future medium Earth orbit (MEO) network, combining SES's operational expertise with K2 Space's agile engineering to create a scalable, adaptable, and software-defined satellite network.

Karan Kunjur, CEO of K2 Space, emphasized that this partnership rethinks advanced space network development by merging SES's experience with K2 Space's speed and flexibility, aiming for a network capable of evolving through agile innovation cycles.

SES CEO Adel Al-Saleh highlighted that the upcoming MEO network will be flexible, open, and software-driven, designed to support multiple missions such as hosted payloads, space situational awareness, and direct-to-device data relay.

An on-orbit mission scheduled for early 2026 will be the first step in validating new network technologies and initiating the deployment of SES's advanced MEO network, with validation efforts spanning Europe and the US.

SES plans to test optical ground stations developed by Cailabs, which utilize laser beams for space data transmission, offering higher speeds, enhanced security, and better spectrum efficiency, with data rates reaching up to 10Gbps.

The adoption of laser-based space-to-ground links is progressing, with SES preparing to integrate these systems into commercial services, featuring ground stations capable of remote operation and two-way 10 Gbps transmission.

This initiative reflects a broader industry shift from traditional, linear satellite development models to an iterative, innovation-driven process that emphasizes continuous improvement and market responsiveness.

The collaboration underscores a move towards more flexible, responsive satellite networks, combining the strengths of established operators like SES with innovative startups to meet evolving market demands.

Development efforts are being conducted across Europe and the US, leveraging the strengths of both SES and K2 Space to accelerate delivery and reduce long development timelines for high-value network services.

Joe Barrett from GSA forecasts strong growth in broadband and direct-to-cell satellite services, along with steady expansion of IoT applications, highlighting the evolving landscape of satellite connectivity.

Optical communication technologies, such as laser links, offer significant advantages over radio waves, including higher bandwidth, improved security, and alleviation of spectrum congestion, addressing the crowded space spectrum issue.

Satellite connectivity is transitioning from niche applications to mainstream use, with 170 operator-satellite partnerships across 80 countries and 34 of these providing commercial services in 25 markets, according to a GSA report.