OneWeb to trial remote community broadband with BT, Clarus under UK govt programme

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications operator OneWeb has been selected for two trials to connect remote communities for the UK government’s Very Hard to Reach Premises connectivity programme. OneWeb’s high speed, low latency LEO network will deliver connectivity for trials through its partners BT and Clarus in the Shetland Islands and on Lundy Island.

Michelle Donelan MP, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, said: ‘Our Wireless Infrastructure Strategy sets out our plan to ensure everyone, no matter where they live, can reap the benefits of improved connectivity. With the help of companies like OneWeb, we are committing GBP8 million (USD10 million) to provide satellite connectivity for our most remote communities so that no one is left behind, while ensuring all populated areas in the UK will be served by what I call 5G-plus technology by 2030.’ As reported earlier this week by TeleGeography’s CommsUpdate the government’s Wireless Infrastructure Strategy set nationwide 5G Standalone (SA) network coverage as its ‘headline ambition’ among other 5G/6G strategy goals.