Lynk Global and Omnispace merge aims to advance direct-to-device satellite connectivity

Summary Points:

• The combined company will integrate Omnispace’s 60 MHz of globally S-band spectrum and Lynk’s multi-spectrum satellite technology.
• The merger aims to accelerate global D2D deployment, enabling backward-compatible mobile voice, messaging and data connectivity for billions of smartphones and IoT devices.
• The transaction is expected to close late this year or early next year, with Lynk CEO Ramu Potarazu leading the merged entity and Omnispace CEO Ram Viswanathan serving as chief strategy officer.

FALLS CHURCH, Va. - Lynk Global in Falls Church, Va., and Omnispace in McLean, Va., announced plans to merge with the aim of delivering a direct-to-device (D2D) communications connectivity solution, bridging the gap between today’s satellite and terrestrial networks. Following the merger, SES will become a major strategic shareholder, facilitating its deployment of D2D and Internet of Things (IoT) services for mobile network operators (MNOs), enterprise, and government customers as part of a multi-orbit, multi-spectrum network architecture.

The combined entity will leverage Omnispace’s 60 MHz of globally coordinated S-band spectrum and its high-priority filings with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), optimized for D2D services. Omnispace’s licensed mobile satellite spectrum is compliant with 3GPP standards for non-terrestrial networks (NTN), and adheres to national regulatory frameworks.

The merger will also capitalize on Lynk’s patented multi-spectrum satellite technology platform, which enables backward-compatible, satellite-delivered mobile voice and messaging services to more than 7 billion smartphones and IoT devices. The integration will allow Lynk to use the S-band spectrum to expand its data, voice, and messaging capabilities across new smartphones and IoT devices, including automotive platforms. Lynk’s partnerships with more than 50 MNOs in over 50 countries will also benefit from the enhanced D2D service offering.

Related: Lockheed Martin and Omnispace eye global 5G hybrid network

Merger details

SES, a current investor in both companies, will deepen its involvement following the merger, providing access to its multi-orbit network and global ground infrastructure. SES will also support the engineering, operations, and regulatory needs of the combined company. 

The transaction is expected to close late this year or early next year, subject to customary approvals and closing conditions. Upon closing, Potarazu will serve as CEO and Viswanathan will serve as chief strategy officer of the new entity.