US companies Lynk Global and Omnispace plan to merge to deliver comprehensive direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity, bridging the gap between satellite and terrestrial networks.

Following the merger, Luxembourg-based SES, an existing investor in both companies, will become a major shareholder, facilitating a deployment of D2D and IoT services for mobile network operators (MNOs), enterprises and governments as part of a multi-orbit, multi-spectrum network architecture.

The combined entity will leverage Omnispace’s 60MHz of globally coordinated S-band spectrum and its high-priority filings with the ITU, optimised for D2D services. Omnispace’s licensed mobile satellite spectrum is compliant with 3GPP standards for non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), and adheres to national regulatory frameworks. It includes the largest S-band market access footprint, reaching over a billion people across the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia.

This foundation enables accelerated global deployment and scalable service delivery.

The combination will benefit from Lynk’s patented, low-cost, multi-spectrum satellite technology platform. Lynk’s technology enables backwards compatible satellite-delivered mobile voice and messaging services to more than seven billion smartphones and IoT devices and will leverage the S-band to offer a step-change in its data, voice and messaging services to new smartphones and IoT devices, including automotive platforms.

“We now have the right mix of technology, spectrum and leadership to extend mobile connectivity where and when it’s needed most,” said Ramu Potarazu, CEO of Lynk. “This merger will enable us to accelerate our efforts in delivering seamless, reliable messaging, voice and data services, serving MNOs, as well as consumer, commercial and industrial vehicles, and government and utility sectors worldwide.”

Ram Viswanathan, CEO of Omnispace, added: “This merger unlocks the full potential of our global S-band spectrum assets and positions us at the forefront of D2D. By combining Omnispace’s spectrum portfolio with Lynk’s innovative technology, we’re creating a powerful platform for scalable, cost-effective global D2D that will serve the immediate connectivity needs of customers and has the spectrum to enhance capacity over time.”

SES will provide access to its multi-orbit network and globally deployed ground infrastructure. SES will also support the engineering, operations and regulatory needs of the combined entity. The partnership will enable SES to enhance current services for its customers around the world, including those in the mobile telecom, automotive and government sectors.

“We see enormous opportunities in D2D and IoT connectivity,” said Adel Al-Saleh, CEO of SES (www.ses.com). “The planned combination of Lynk and Omnispace will offer SES access to new LEO capabilities that align with our strategy to diversify into this high-growth segment. This merger pairs an industry-leading global spectrum portfolio with a disruptive cost-effective satellite technology platform, accelerating deployment and delivering significant value to our commercial and government customers.”

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

Lynk (lynk.world) is a patented, proven and commercially-licensed satellite-direct-to-standard-mobile-phone system. Lynk’s technology enables MNOs to provide their subscribers with connections from space for their unmodified mobile devices, enabling messaging, voice and data services designed for commercial and government applications. The technology has been tested and proven on all seven continents, and the company is partnered with more than 50 MNOs and has commercial contracts to deliver services to over 50 countries.

Headquartered in the Washington DC area, and founded by veteran telecommunications and satellite industry executives, Omnispace (omnispace.com) leverages 5G technologies and is combining the global footprint of a non-geostationary satellite constellation with the mobile networks of telecoms companies to bring an interoperable one-network connectivity to users and IoT devices anywhere on the globe.