Omnispace, Lockheed Martin join forces for space-based 5G network

Tysons-based Omnispace proposes global 5G satellite constellation

Published March 23, 2021 by Richard Foster

Tysons-based satellite telecommunications company Omnispace LLC has entered into a strategic alliance with Lockheed Martin Corp. to explore jointly developing a space-based 5G global network.

“Omnispace is fully committed to the vision of creating a new global communications platform that powers 5G connectivity directly to mobile devices from space,” Omnispace President and CEO Ram Viswanathan said in a statement. “We welcome Lockheed Martin’s holistic approach to complex systems and deep expertise in satellite technology and government markets, along with their commitment to creating innovative communication solutions.”

In a release issued Tuesday, the companies said that the proposed non-geostationary orbit satellite constellation’s 5G network would have the same capacity as leading mobile wireless phone carriers. It would offer worldwide connectivity to commercial and government customers, with “a wide range of civil and commercial applications,” including supporting defense communications.

Rick Ambrose, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Space, said, “We share a common vision with Omnispace of a space-based 5G global network that would enable users to seamlessly transition between satellite and terrestrial networks — eliminating the need for multiple devices on multiple networks. Ultimately, it’s about empowering end users with low latency connections that work anywhere. This step forward has the potential to upend space-based mobility.”

Based in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a Fortune 500 global aerospace and defense contractor with 114,000 employees worldwide.

Founded in 2012, Omnispace is focused on developing a global 5G telecommunications network via a constellation of satellites. Company founder Viswanathan is the former CEO of Devas Multimedia, a pioneering satellite-terrestrial broadband internet provider for India.

Subscribe to Virginia Business.

Get our daily e-newsletter.