Europe has launched a major initiative to lead next-generation global communications by combining space systems, 6G technology and artificial intelligence (AI). At the Mobile World Congress event, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the GSMA Foundry unveiled a €100 million funding programme to accelerate the development and deployment of hybrid satellite-terrestrial networks, also known as non-terrestrial networks (NTN). These networks are seen as a critical foundation for future 6G and AI-enabled digital services spanning telemedicine, autonomous vehicles and precision agriculture.
The initiative seeks to harness Europe’s expertise in space, mobile communications and software to build integrated connectivity infrastructure that stretches beyond traditional ground-based networks. This effort aims to support ubiquitous coverage — including remote regions — by linking satellites with terrestrial 6G systems, enabling connectivity for smartphones and Internet of Things (IoT) devices directly from orbit. The funding will support projects that develop AI-driven network management, early-stage 6G research and collaborative testbeds combining satellite and terrestrial technologies.
Experts believe such hybrid networks will be vital as future communications evolve. AI is expected to play a key role in managing complex multi-orbit satellite systems and optimising connectivity in real time, helping networks adapt dynamically to traffic demand and environmental conditions. Related industry moves at the Mobile World Congress — such as partnerships to advance AI-native 6G architectures and radio access networks (AI-RAN) — show a broader global push toward telecommunication systems built around intelligent, software-driven platforms.
Beyond Earth-bound applications, Europe’s enhanced connectivity infrastructure is also being linked with broader space ambitions, such as operations on the Moon. Demonstrations at the congress illustrated how hybrid networks might support not only terrestrial digitalisation but also deep-space missions and remote operations, signalling a strategic effort to position Europe as a leader in both communications and space technology in the AI era.
