Lynk Global and Omnispace Announce Strategic Merger to Advance Direct-to-Device Satellite Spectrum Innovation
A new partnership is forming in the direct-to-device sector with access to a high-priority spectrum band, positioning it to better compete in the market. Lynk Global, a satellite operator managing a constellation of direct-to-device (D2D) and IoT-capable satellites, has announced its intention to merge with telecommunications firm Omnispace. The goal of this merger is to enhance D2D services through globally coordinated S-band spectrum access, positioning the combined entity alongside industry leaders such as SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile, both of whom are consolidating satellite frequencies after previously collaborating with cellular network partners.
SES is also significantly involved in these developments, having investments in both Lynk Global and Omnispace, and will remain a major stakeholder following the completion of the merger. The transaction is anticipated to be finalized by early next year, with the possibility of closing sooner.
“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,” stated SES CEO Adel Al-Saleh in a press release. “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.” Upon completion, Ramu Potarazu, the current CEO of Lynk Global, will assume leadership of the new company, while Ram Viswanathan, CEO of Omnispace, will transition to the role of chief strategy officer.
Spectrum remains a critical asset in the satellite sector, particularly within the direct-to-device market. Its limited availability and the allocation of priority transmission bands, determined by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), are key drivers of competitive advantage, offering operators reduced latency and preferable data transmission rights. SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile, direct competitors to Lynk and Omnispace in the D2D space, have likewise been securing essential spectrum rights for their operations.
Omnispace holds an ITU allocation for a high-priority segment of 60 MHz S-band spectrum - the industry’s largest S-band market access footprint, which covers over one billion individuals across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia and will be retained following the merger. This robust foundation supports rapid global deployment and scalable service delivery.
Lynk’s patented, cost-effective, multi-spectrum satellite technology platform, which has demonstrated reliability in enabling backward-compatible satellite-based mobile voice and messaging services to more than seven billion smartphones and IoT devices, will leverage the S-band to improve these services for new phones, IoT devices, and automotive platforms. Viswanathan commented, “By combining Omnispace’s spectrum portfolio with Lynk’s innovative technology, we are establishing a robust foundation for scalable, cost-effective global D2D connectivity that meets immediate customer needs and provides spectrum resources to expand capacity over time.”