Mobile Satellite Services Market - By Service (Voice Services, Data Services, Broadband Services, Tracking and Monitoring Services), By Platform, By End-user Industry & Forecast 2024 - 2032

Mobile Satellite Services Market Size

Mobile Satellite Services Market was valued at USD 4.8 billion in 2023 and is estimated to register a CAGR of over 6% between 2024 and 2032. Advancements in satellite technology continue to drive the evolution of mobile satellite services.
 

Key developments include improved bandwidth efficiency, reduced latency, and enhanced coverage. Additionally, the integration of satellite networks with emerging technologies, such as 5G and IoT, is shaping new opportunities and applications across various industries worldwide. For instance, in May 2024, Terran Orbital, a prominent manufacturer of small satellites, announced its membership in the mobile satellite services association (MSSA), a recently established industry association dedicated to advancing the direct-to-device (D2D) ecosystem utilizing L- and S-band spectrum licensed for mobile satellite services (MSS).
 

The increasing need for remote connectivity solutions, driven by industries, such as maritime, aviation, and remote land-based operations, is driving the mobile satellite services industry growth. Businesses and organizations operating in remote or underserved areas require reliable communication for operations, safety, and efficiency. Mobile satellite services offer a viable solution, providing seamless connectivity where terrestrial networks are unavailable or unreliable. This rising demand for remote connectivity solutions is a significant driver propelling the market growth.
 

The high initial infrastructure investments associated with establishing satellite communication networks pose a significant challenge for providers of remote connectivity solutions in the mobile satellite services industry. Developing and deploying the necessary satellite systems, ground stations, and support infrastructure require substantial capital investments. This financial barrier may deter some companies from entering the market or expanding their operations, limiting competition and potentially hindering the availability and affordability of remote connectivity solutions for end users in remote or underserved regions.
 

Mobile Satellite Services Market Trends

Innovative pricing models are emerging in the market, offering flexible options such as pay-as-you-go and subscription-based plans. These pricing strategies cater to diverse user needs and budgets, driving greater accessibility and affordability of satellite connectivity solutions across various industries and regions. For instance, in May 2024, AT&T finalized a definitive commercial agreement with AST SpaceMobile to deliver satellite-based broadband connectivity directly to smartphones by 2030. AST SpaceMobile intends to deploy its initial five commercial BlueBird satellites from Cape Canaveral, a move that will play a pivotal role in facilitating the commercial service.
 

The partnership challenges similar deals between SpaceX and T-Mobile, as well as other satellite operators, such as Iridium, Viasat, and Omnispace, that are working to connect smartphones from space. With the FCC establishing a framework to enable such services, the future of communications may see satellite technology merge with terrestrial networks to provide ubiquitous connectivity.
 

Satellite constellation deployments are growing in the mobile satellite services market, with a focus on expanding coverage and capacity. Companies are launching constellations of smaller satellites, particularly in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), to enhance global connectivity and reduce latency. This growth is driven by the need to meet the growing demand for data-intensive applications, such as high-speed internet access and IoT connectivity, while also improving network reliability and resilience against disruptions caused by atmospheric conditions or equipment failures.
 

Mobile Satellite Services Market Analysis

Based on service, the market is divided into voice services, data services, broadband services, tracking & monitoring services, and others. In 2023, the data services segment accounted for a market share of around 28%. Data services are transitioning toward higher data speeds and capacities. Advancements in satellite technology, including higher throughput satellites and improved compression algorithms, are enabling faster data transmission rates. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for bandwidth-intensive applications such as video streaming, large file transfers, and real-time data analytics.
 

For instance, in November 2023, the Indian government granted licenses to Jio Satellite Communications and OneWeb, supported by Bharti, enabling them to offer satellite internet services in India. These licenses, which also include authorization to operate as Internet Service Providers (ISPs) across India, empower both entities to deliver internet access via satellite or mobile networks.
 

Based on platform, the market is categorized into portable/hand-held terminals, vehicular terminals, and fixed terminals. In 2023, the portable/hand-held terminals segment accounted for a market share of around 40% and is expected to exceed USD 3 billion by 2032. Portable and hand-held terminals in the market are witnessing a growth toward miniaturization and enhanced functionality. Manufacturers are developing smaller, lighter terminals with improved performance and ruggedness, catering to the needs of users in diverse environments such as remote field operations, emergency response, and outdoor recreational activities. This growth is driven by the demand for compact & portable communication solutions.
 

In the market, there is a trend toward integrating advanced features into portable and handheld terminals. Manufacturers are incorporating capabilities such as multi-band connectivity, GPS navigation, and satellite phone functionality into compact devices. This growth is driven by the demand for versatile communication solutions that offer not only voice and data connectivity but also navigation and location-based services, catering to the needs of users across various industries and applications.
 

North America dominated the global mobile satellite services market with a major share of over 32% in 2023 owing to their increased adoption in government and defense sectors. The growing emphasis on national security and disaster response capabilities is driving the demand for reliable satellite communication solutions. Additionally, advancements in satellite technology and regulatory support are further fueling the expansion of mobile satellite services across the region. For instance, in December 2023, Rogers Communications and Lynk Global achieved a milestone by completing the inaugural successful satellite-to-mobile phone call in Canada. This accomplishment represents a noteworthy advancement in extending wireless coverage to remote regions.
 

In European nations, including France, Spain, the UK, and Germany, the market is witnessing a growth toward greater integration with terrestrial networks. Collaborations between satellite operators and terrestrial providers are enhancing network coverage, capacity, and reliability. This trend is driven by the increasing demand for seamless connectivity across urban, rural, and remote areas, as well as for IoT applications and emergency communication services.
 

In the Asia Pacific region, the mobile satellite services market is experiencing a growth toward expanding applications in maritime and aviation industries. The growing maritime trade and air travel in the region are driving the demand for reliable satellite communication solutions to ensure safety, navigation, and operational efficiency. Additionally, advancements in satellite technology are enhancing coverage and connectivity for users across Asia Pacific.
 

Mobile Satellite Services Market Share

Inmarsat, Iridium Communications, and EchoStar are dominant players holding market share around 24% in the mobile satellite services industry. Inmarsat offers a wide range of satellite communication solutions, including voice and data services for maritime, aviation, and land-based applications. Iridium Communications operates a constellation of low-earth orbit satellites, providing global voice and data coverage to industries such as maritime, aviation, and government.
 

EchoStar specializes in satellite broadband services, delivering high-speed internet connectivity to remote and underserved areas. These companies leverage their extensive satellite networks, innovative technologies, and industry expertise to meet the growing demand for reliable and resilient mobile satellite services across diverse sectors and geographical regions, cementing their position as market leaders.
 

Mobile Satellite Services Market Companies

Major players operating in the mobile satellite services industry are:

• Inmarsat
• Iridium Communications
• Globalstar
• Thuraya Telecommunications
• EchoStar
• Telesat
• Singtel
• Avanti Communications
• Intelsat
• SES
• Eutelsat
   

Mobile Satellite Services Industry News

• In May 2024, SmarTone and China Telecom announced their partnership to introduce direct-to-phone satellite connectivity in Hong Kong. This groundbreaking service will empower users to place calls and send messages even in scenarios where traditional networks are inaccessible.
   
• In January 2024, SpaceX accomplished the successful launch of the initial six Starlink satellites equipped with direct-to-cell capabilities. These satellites are poised to empower mobile network operators worldwide to deliver uninterrupted global access to texting, calling, and browsing, eliminating cellular dead zones.
   

The mobile satellite services market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue ($Bn) from 2021 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Service

• Voice services
• Data services
• Broadband services
• Tracking and monitoring services
• Other

Market, By Platform

• Portable/hand-held terminals
• Vehicular terminals
• Fixed terminals

Market, By End-user industry

• Maritime
• Aeronautical
• Government and military
• Oil and gas
• Mining
• Transportation and logistics
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
  • Rest of Asia Pacific 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America 
• MEA
  • UAE
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Rest of MEA