5G NTN and D2D: From Architecture to Market Strategy
Course Overview
The telecom industry is entering a new phase where connectivity is no longer limited to terrestrial infrastructure. Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) are extending 5G coverage from the ground to the sky, enabling global, seamless connectivity through satellite constellations, high-altitude platforms, and aerial systems.
At the same time, a major breakthrough is emerging with Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite communications, allowing standard smartphones to connect directly to satellites—without requiring specialized terminals. This evolution is transforming how networks are designed, deployed, and regulated.
This course explores how NTN is being integrated into 5G through 3GPP standards, and how leading players such as Starlink, Eutelsat OneWeb, and Amazon LEO are reshaping the connectivity landscape. With a strong focus on technical architecture, D2D solutions, and regulatory implications, this training provides participants the tools to understand and evaluate the next generation of hybrid terrestrial–non-terrestrial networks.
Target Audience
- Telecom regulators and policymakers
- Mobile network operators (strategy, architecture, planning teams)
- Satellite operators and integrators
- 5G architects and system engineers
- Technology consultants and decision-makers
Duration & Training Format
- Classroom: 4 days
- LIVE Virtual: 28 hours
*Note:
- A minimum of 8 or more participants is required for a Classroom session to commence.
- A minimum of 6 or more participants is required for a LIVE Virtual session to commence.
- LIVE Virtual courses can be conducted for 5 hours or 7 hours daily. Please note that the number of training days will be extended if you opt for 5 hours daily.
Upcoming Course Dates
12 – 15 Oct 2026 (Mon – Thu), GMT +8
If you are keen on attending this course, please register your interest via our course enquiry form.
Course Objectives
This advanced program provides a deep technical and strategic understanding of NTN and D2D communications within the 5G ecosystem. At the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the end-to-end architecture of 5G NTN systems (Rel-17/18)
- Analyze D2D satellites solutions and their integration into mobile networks
- Evaluate technical constraints (latency, Doppler, link budget, mobility)
- Understand 3GPP standardizations mechanisms enabling NTN and D2D
- Assess security models and key management in NTN/D2D environments
- Identify regulatory, spectrum, and sovereignty challenges
- Compare emerging market solutions (LEO constellations, direct-to-cell providers)
- Support strategic decisions for deployment, partnerships, and policy
Course Outline
- Why NTN and D2D Matters Now
- Saturation of Terrestrial Coverage
- Economics of Rural Connectivity
- Disruption by Starlink
- Why NTN failed previously (Iridium, Globalstar Gen1)
- What Changed (Cheaper Launch Costs, Reusable Rockets, 3GPP Rel-17, Smartphone RF Improvements etc.)
- Satellite and NTN Fundamentals
- Satellite Communications Principles
- Orbit Types
- NTN Platforms
- Link Budget Fundamentals
- Beamforming and Coverage Modeling
- Propagation Characteristics (Delay, Attenuation)
- 5G NTN Architecture (3GPP Rel-17 / Rel-18)
- 3GPP NTN Standardization Timeline
- 3GPP NTN Architecture
- Integration with 5G Core
- NTN gNB Adaptations
- NTN-specific Interfaces and Signaling
- Deployment Models
- Access Technologies for NTN
- 5G NR for NTN (NR-NTN)
- NB-IoT NTN and eMTC NTN
- Waveform Adaptations for Satellite Links
- Timing Advance and Synchronization Challenges
- Random Access in NTN Environments
- Mobility Management with Moving Cells (Satellite Beams)
- Comparison: NR-NTN vs NB-IoT NTN vs GEO Broadband and when to use which
- D2D Satellite Communications Architecture
- D2D Concepts
- Architecture of D2D Satellite Systems
- Key Players and Differences in Architectures
- Spectrum Reuse and Compatibility with Terrestrial Networks
- Device Constraints
- Coverage and Capacity Considerations
- Security and Authentication in NTN/D2D
- 5G AKA in NTN Context
- Key Hierarchy
- Security Challenges
- Secure D2D Communication
- Trust Models Across Satellite and Terrestrial Domains
- Technical Challenges and 3GPP Solutions
- Doppler Effect and Compensation Techniques
- Latency Impact on Protocols and Procedures
- HARQ Limitations in Satellite Links
- Timing Advance and Synchronization
- Beam Mobility and Handover Challenges
- Power Control in NTN
- Standardized Solutions (Rel-17 / Rel-18 Enhancements)
- Regulatory and Spectrum Challenges
- Spectrum Allocation for NTN
- Coexistence with Terrestrial Networks
- Cross-border Coordination
- ITU Frameworks and Satellite Filings
- Licensing Models for D2D Services
- Sovereignty and Data Routing Issues
- Lawful Interception and Security Compliance
- Commercial Use Cases and Service Models
- Direct-to-smartphone Services (Primary Focus)
- Emergency and Public Safety Communications
- Rural and Underserved Connectivity
- IoT over NTN
- Hybrid Service Models (Satellite + Terrestrial)
- Performance vs Cost Trade-Offs
- Operator Business Model Considerations
- Market Landscape and Strategy
- Competitive Analysis of Key Players and Differences in their Business Models
- Business Models
- Integration Strategies for MNOs
- ROI and Deployment Considerations
- Industry Case Studies (e.g., T-Mobile + Starlink, AT&T + AST SpaceMobile)
- Future Trends (Rel-18 / 6G Evolution)
- 3GPP Rel-18 NTN Enhancements
- Evolution toward 6G
- AI-driven Satellite Network Optimization
- Autonomous Networks in NTN
- Future of Global Connectivity
Note: A Certificate of Completion will only be issued upon achieving at least 75% attendance for the course.
Prerequisites
- Good understanding of 5G architecture (SA, SBA, NR)
- Familiarity with radio access technologies and core network principles
- Basic knowledge of IP networking and telecom protocols
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