ESA Selects Keysight and Sateliot for Secure 5G Satellite Network Project

The European Space Agency (ESA) has selected Keysight Technologies and Sateliot to develop a blockchain-enabled framework for securing 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN). The three-year programme will be led by Keysight as the prime contractor, with Sateliot supporting technical development and satellite mission integration.

The project is being funded under ESA’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) programme and aims to create a secure trust framework for satellite-based communications. 

The initiative will explore how blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and digital calibration certificates can be used across the satellite lifecycle, from manufacturing and testing to in-orbit operations and service delivery.

Antonio Franchi, Head of ESA’s Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity programme, said the project would help develop technologies needed to secure future communications networks.

“The future of Europe’s connectivity depends on networks that are not only advanced but trusted, resilient and secure,” Franchi said. He added that the programme would help protect communications against spoofing and tampering while supporting Europe’s position in secure 5G and future 6G communications.

As satellite constellations expand, interactions between satellites, ground systems, and terrestrial 5G networks are increasing. ESA said this is creating challenges related to network security, anomaly management, service quality, and operational confidence. The agency believes trusted and verifiable data will become critical as 6G networks incorporate greater non-terrestrial infrastructure and autonomous operations.

According to Keysight, the programme will progress from laboratory research and prototyping to a full in-orbit demonstration. The companies plan to validate blockchain-based trust mechanisms, autonomous anomaly detection, and secure telemetry in operational satellite environments.

Eric Taylor, Vice President of Aerospace, Defence and Government Solutions at Keysight, said the initiative comes as non-terrestrial network deployments accelerate globally.

“By combining test and measurement expertise with AI-driven assurance and blockchain technologies, this work will demonstrate how trust can be embedded across the full NTN lifecycle, from design and validation through in-orbit operation,” Taylor said.

ESA said the programme is expected to inform future non-terrestrial network operations, support secure satellite connectivity, and contribute to the adoption of trusted space-based 5G and 6G networks worldwide.