Lynk Global is set to merge with Omnispace to enhance its direct-to-device (D2D) services, leveraging a globally coordinated S-band spectrum. This move aligns them with SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile in securing satellite frequencies, a shift from their initial reliance on cellular partnerships. SES, a Luxembourg-based multi-orbit operator that has invested in both companies, will become a significant strategic shareholder in the newly combined entity. The announcement was made on October 22 in a joint news release, which provided limited details.
The merged entity will combine Omnispace's 60 megahertz of S-band spectrum with Lynk’s D2D platform. Lynk currently provides intermittent messaging and alert services in several island nations, utilizing five small satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO). Omnispace had envisioned using the spectrum for a D2D constellation comprising over 600 satellites, following experimental spacecraft deployments in low and medium Earth orbits.
However, Omnispace's ambitions faced challenges, particularly in the U.S., due to claimed interference from SpaceX’s D2D service. According to George Giagtzoglou, Omnispace vice president of strategy and marketing, the interference was specific to the U.S., where part of the T-Mobile cellular spectrum used by SpaceX overlaps with Omnispace’s S-band frequencies. A recent regulatory request to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) aims to resolve this conflict by aligning frequency use with international S-band allocations.
“This merger unlocks the full potential of our global S-band spectrum assets and positions us at the forefront of D2D,” stated Omnispace CEO Ram Viswanathan in the announcement.
Ramu Potarazu, CEO of Falls Church, Virginia-based Lynk, emphasized the strategic significance of the merger: “We now have the right mix of technology, spectrum and leadership to extend mobile connectivity where and when it’s needed most." He further added, "This merger will enable us to accelerate our efforts in delivering seamless, reliable messaging, voice and data services — serving [mobile network operators (MNOs)], as well as consumer, commercial and industrial vehicles, and government and utility sectors worldwide.”
This deal follows Lynk's previous attempt to raise capital by merging with Slam Corp., a publicly listed shell company, which was later abandoned. Potarazu had previously indicated plans to collaborate with SES and its geostationary and medium Earth orbit network to offer a continuous, global D2D service by 2027. Lynk plans to launch two satellites in February to test new technology, including a multi-orbit relay capability with SES.
The merger is expected to be finalized by the end of this year or early next year, pending regulatory approvals. Potarazu will serve as CEO of the combined company, while Viswanathan will assume the role of chief strategy officer.
Meanwhile, SpaceX is awaiting regulatory approval for its acquisition of S-band spectrum from EchoStar, a geostationary broadband operator, in a deal valued at over $17 billion. SpaceX currently uses over 650 Starlink D2D satellites in LEO to provide limited text messaging, emergency alerts, and app services in the U.S., New Zealand, and Japan. The company is using about 10 megahertz of terrestrial spectrum from T-Mobile in the U.S. and aims to significantly increase its D2D capacity with a second-generation service using 50 megahertz of EchoStar’s spectrum.
AST SpaceMobile, with five BlueBird satellites in LEO, aims to provide continuous coverage in key markets after increasing launches over the next 18 months. They've partnered with AT&T and Verizon in the U.S. and are seeking approval to access L-band spectrum in North America from bankrupt satellite operator Ligado Networks. AST states that satellite frequencies are critical to their plan to deliver broadband speeds of up to 120 megabits per second from space, alongside a deal for global S-band spectrum, subject to country-by-country approval.