Telefónica has collaborated with the University of Málaga (UMA) on the development of the Victoria-Satellite project, a pioneering initiative aimed at advancing a hybrid connectivity model in which terrestrial and satellite networks are directly and natively integrated, paving the way for future 5G-Advanced and 6G non-terrestrial networks (NTN).
The initiative, supported by the European Space Agency and funded through the European Union’s NextGenerationEU programme, will develop use cases requiring uninterrupted communications when satellite coverage is unavailable. It will also serve as a research and development platform where network integration is key to ensuring resilience, coverage and service continuity.
In line with its ambition to be the best gateway to digital technologies and its commitment to innovation, Telefónica has deployed a flexible and scalable multi-orbit solution capable of dynamically adapting to different satellite constellations. The solution is currently being tested with a Hispasat geostationary satellite model, which orbits in synchronisation with the Earth’s rotation, and is expected to be extended in the future to new low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite models.
The deployed infrastructure integrates high-performance equipment, advanced tracking systems and a comprehensive communications architecture combining IP networks and satellite technologies. It also includes a centralised monitoring and control system that provides real-time visibility, remote operation and proactive incident management.
Eduardo Ariste, Managing Director of Business and Public Administrations at Telefónica Spain, said: “This initiative is establishing itself as one of Europe’s most advanced experimentation ecosystems for developing the technologies that will define the networks of the future. Through it, Telefónica is strengthening its role as a leading technology partner in advanced communications while contributing to European technological sovereignty. This project enables us to demonstrate our ability to evolve connected networks so that they become fully integrated and cross-border, thereby contributing to the development of a pan-European innovation ecosystem.”
Pedro Merino Gómez, project lead at the University of Málaga, said: “Thanks to this project and our collaboration with Telefónica, the University of Málaga now has access to state-of-the-art infrastructure that will enable us to further explore the integration of terrestrial 5G communications and satellite systems, opening up new opportunities for research, innovation and technological development.”
The project’s key differentiator lies in its ability to bring together cutting-edge infrastructure, research talent, industry and public administrations within a single environment, allowing innovation to be validated under real-world conditions and accelerating its path to market. This unique combination of capabilities makes Victoria-Satellite a strategic asset for strengthening digital competitiveness, technological autonomy and European leadership in 5G, 6G and non-terrestrial communications.
