Keysight and Sateliot Chosen by ESA to Create Blockchain-Enabled Framework for 5G NTN

Key Takeaways

Keysight Technologies, selected by the ESA, will lead a three-year program for secure blockchain-enabled anomaly detection in 5G non-terrestrial networks.
The project aims to address complexities introduced by emerging satellite communication constellations, focusing on reliable and secure network performance.
By integrating blockchain, AI, and machine learning, the program will enhance trust and operational security in future NTN deployments.

ESA Partners with Keysight on Secure 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks

Keysight Technologies has been appointed by the European Space Agency (ESA) to lead a three-year initiative aimed at developing secure, blockchain-based anomaly detection for 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN). In collaboration with Sateliot, Keysight will leverage its technical expertise in design, testing, and measurement to build a framework that ensures safe and verifiable network operations as satellite communication systems become increasingly intricate.

With the rapid deployment of satellite communication constellations, the interactions between satellites, ground systems, and terrestrial 5G infrastructure are growing more complex. This complexity brings several challenges—particularly in terms of quality of service, operational security, and confidence in network reliability. The advancement to 6G heightens the importance of trusted and verifiable data, vital for facilitating autonomous operations and AI integration into network management.

Funded through ESA’s Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity program under the Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) initiative, the project intends to establish a secure, verifiable trust framework for non-terrestrial environments. Keysight will explore applications of blockchain, AI, machine learning (ML), and digital calibration certificates throughout the entire NTN lifecycle—from satellite manufacturing and calibration to in-orbit operations and service delivery.

Albert Pujol, chief innovation officer at Sateliot, emphasized the significance of the program, stating, “This program represents a definitive shift toward integrating space-based assets into a secure, unified 5G ecosystem.” He noted that incorporating blockchain into orbital operations facilitates a transparent validation layer, essential for scaling massive IoT networks with consistent security and performance.

Antonio Franchi from ESA underscored the strategic importance of the project, asserting that “the future of Europe’s connectivity depends on networks that are not only advanced but trusted, resilient, and secure.” The collaboration between Keysight and Sateliot reflects ESA’s commitment to pioneering technology that safeguards the integration of non-terrestrial and terrestrial networks, aiming to protect Europe’s communications from potential spoofing and tampering.

Eric Taylor, Keysight’s vice president of Aerospace, Defense, and Government Solutions, highlighted that the initiative marks a significant advancement in securing hybrid space-terrestrial networks, especially as global NTN deployments are rising. He noted that combining test and measurement expertise with AI-driven assurance and blockchain technologies will embed trust throughout the NTN lifecycle, from design to operational phases.

Thierry Locquette, Keysight’s vice president of sales for Europe, pointed out Europe’s leadership in space-based connectivity and secure telecommunications, reinforcing Keysight’s commitment to fostering innovation and sovereignty in European technologies.

The integration of these advanced technologies aims not only to improve the integrity and reliability of space-based IoT and communications systems but also to shield them from external cyber threats, such as spoofing and tampering. The program will evolve from laboratory research to real-world applications with a complete in-orbit demonstration, validating methods for blockchain-backed trust and autonomous anomaly detection.

The ESA-backed initiative is poised to strengthen Europe’s stance in secure satellite connectivity and expedite the global adoption of trusted space-based 5G and 6G networks.

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