New Consortium to Provide Telecom Operators with Hybrid and Resilient PPDR Connectivity

Constellation Technologies & Operations (CTO), a future operator of space-based connectivity services, and TDF, a neutral telecom infrastructure operator, announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

This innovative strategic partnership aims to integrate Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellites as a complementary solution to terrestrial infrastructure. The objective: 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.

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 are reaffirming their commitment to addressing the evolving market needs and actively contributing to the vision of universal connectivity.

A Shared Ambition: Building Hybrid and Resilient Connectivity for Telecom Operators

The convergence of terrestrial and space-based connectivity is becoming a reality, creating new opportunities for telecom operators. CTO offers an innovative solution to this challenge with a unique approach: providing a shared, neutral, space-based infrastructure in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), 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 access from space—just as they do today with terrestrial networks—including in rural, remote, or underserved regions. This breakthrough represents 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 chosen to partner with CTO to enhance its portfolio of solutions, strengthen its role in the future of connectivity by integrating terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), and offer innovative and resilient solutions.

A Technological Partnership for the Future of Connectivity

The alliance between CTO and TDF is built on strong technological and industrial complementarity. On the one side, CTO is pioneering a breakthrough with its VLEO satellites using 5G mmWave spectrum, enabling high-speed, low-latency internet access from space. On the other side, TDF contributes its 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 in the event of 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.

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.”