SES and Lynk Global are joining forces to expand the rapidly growing direct-to-device (D2D) market. This strategic partnership involves a Series B funding investment by SES into Lynk Global's D2D constellation. The collaboration goes beyond financial support, incorporating a comprehensive suite of integrated services designed to significantly boost Lynk Global's capabilities.
SES's contribution includes its MEO-Relay service, a critical component enabling D2D providers to seamlessly route traffic between low earth orbit (LEO) and SES's medium earth orbit (MEO) network. This innovative approach reduces reliance on ground infrastructure, improving both reach and resilience. Additionally, SES is providing Network-as-a-Service, leveraging its global ground network and geostationary satellites for telemetry, tracking, command, and monitoring (TTC & M) services.
Beyond technological integration, SES will serve as a key strategic channel partner for Lynk Global. This partnership will facilitate access to Lynk Global’s D2D network for government, mobile network operators (MNOs), and automotive clients. This opens doors for a diverse range of applications, including remote access solutions, mission-critical first responder communications, secure government communications, offshore connectivity, and automotive applications.
Ramu Potarazu, CEO of Lynk Global, stated, “This long-term strategic collaboration with SES will deeply integrate our networks to enhance our capabilities, and validates our LEO D2D network. With access to the right satellite infrastructure and dedicated ground infrastructure through SES, we are strengthening our ability to address government, MNO, and automotive D2D use-cases.”
Adel Al-Saleh, CEO of SES, added, “We recognise D2D as an exciting growth opportunity that complements our multi-orbit network to address a broader set of use cases. This partnership gives SES’s exposure into the D2D segment and is a key part of our strategy to diversify into this nascent, high-growth segment. SES’s multi-orbit network, particularly our MEO and ground infrastructure, will enhance the resilience, global reach, and innovation of Lynk’s D2D network. Lynk Global will be the first D2D provider to benefit from our MEO-Relay service working in orchestration with our global ground-based infrastructure network. SES and Lynk will collaborate to expand Lynk’s manufacturing into Europe, creating opportunities to incorporate Lynk’s D2D capabilities into European programs.”