Connectivity Technology Blog

When we talk about Non-Terrestrial Networks, or NTN, the discussion usually focuses on satellites providing connectivity directly to users and devices. However, a short presentation from Airbus looked at a very different role for non-terrestrial infrastructure. Andres Catelo, Product Manager for Lasercomms Services & Ground Segment at Airbus Defence and Space, discussed how free-space optical communications could provide extremely high-capacity connectivity through satellites, aircraft and other platforms. The wider vision is to integrate these optical links with terrestrial fibre infrastructure and use them to support future 5G and 6G networks. Rather than replacing terrestrial networks, the idea is to add another high-capacity and highly adaptable layer above them. Airbus is exploring how non-terrestrial optical connectivity could support xhaul, connect network nodes, move traffic between data centres and provide additional routes when terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable or...

We have looked at glass-based connectivity solutions a few times on this blog, especially the work around transparent antennas and the use of windows as part of the radio network. The idea may sound futuristic, but it is gradually moving from concept demonstrations to more practical deployment scenarios. The latest example comes from KDDI and JR East, who have successfully demonstrated a way to expand 5G millimetre wave coverage inside JR Yamanote Line train cars. The demonstration was completed by 15 April 2026 at JR East’s Tokyo General Rolling Stock Center, with the news release published on 20 May 2026. The train cars used for the test were parked, so this should be seen as an important technical demonstration rather than a live passenger service deployment. The challenge being addressed is easy to understand. The 28 GHz band used for 5G millimetre wave can provide high-speed, high-capacity connectivity, but it is also highly directional and more easily blocked by obstacles. Train...