Cobham Satcom and Gatehouse Satcom Announce Strategic Merger to Advance Global 5G NTN Connectivity

Cobham Satcom, a global leader in satellite communications technology, and Gatehouse Satcom, a frontrunner in advanced 5G NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) software, have announced a strategic merger between Gatehouse Satcom and Cobham Satcom’s Network Division. This milestone positions the combined organization to accelerate the satellite industry’s shift toward standardized 5G-based connectivity across commercial, government, defense, and emerging direct-to-device markets.

The newly formed entity — created through the integration of Gatehouse Satcom and Cobham Satcom’s Network Division — will operate as a subsidiary within the Cobham Satcom Group.

Kenney Schmidt Christiansen, current CEO of Gatehouse Satcom, will continue in the role of CEO for the merged organization. Its core mission will be to deliver integrated 5G NTN network solutions that enhance interoperability and enable the next generation of satellite connectivity.

"Joining forces with Cobham Satcom gives us the scale and talent to accelerate our ambitions," said CEO Kenney Schmidt Christiansen. "Together, we will continue developing world-class 5G NTN software and hardware for commercial, government, and defense customers, now in an even stronger structure supported by Cobham Satcom's operational scale and network expertise."

The merger combines Cobham Satcom’s longstanding leadership in radio access network platforms and ground infrastructure with Gatehouse Satcom’s advanced 5G NTN software capabilities. The joint entity will continue to develop 3GPP-compatible 5G NTN software, already proven across LEO, MEO, and GEO constellations, addressing accelerating market demand for satellite operators to deploy 5G-NTN-based stand-alone and hybrid services.

Supported by increased investment and a unified innovation roadmap, the new entity will maintain its current product portfolio while advancing next-generation 5G/6G NTN solutions for maritime, defense, IoT, enterprise, and direct-to-device markets worldwide.

Cobham Satcom will remain the majority shareholder and will continue to serve its core maritime, government, and enterprise customers through its established SAILOR, Sea Tel, EXPLORER, and TRACKER brands.

"This acquisition creates significant strategic opportunities as the satellite communications industry undergoes rapid transformation." Christophe Duret, CEO of Cobham Satcom, said. "By merging our Network Division's decades of expertise with Gatehouse Satcom's groundbreaking 5G NTN capabilities, we're strengthening our technology roadmap and providing satellite operators and service providers with an unmatched end-to-end platform to support their transition to 5G NTN."

The transaction remains subject to customary regulatory approvals.