OneWeb received permission from the FCC in June to deploy a global network of 720 low-Earth orbit satellites using the Ka (20/30 GHz) and Ku (11/14 GHz) frequency bands. Earlier in 2017, OneWeb started building a satellite manufacturing factory which will be capable of producing 15 satellites per week.
Small, low-cost user terminals will talk to the satellites in the sky, and emit LTE, 3G and WiFi to the surrounding areas, providing high-speed access for everyone.
OneWeb will act as an extension of existing networks, not a replacement. Much of the world is already covered by ISPs and mobile operators’ high capacity networks. Our system is designed to extend these networks into rural areas and create affordable connectivity for all. Our small cell terminals and core network will be fully 3GPP compatible, so partner operators will be able to use our infrastructure with their current customers, devices and billing systems. Our terminals will connect to devices either on unlicensed frequencies, or using our partner operators’ frequencies to provide better coverage for their customers.
OneWeb’s architecture will provide layer 2 and layer 3 services that can be used by any ISP or telecommunication provider to extend any network. Our small cell terminals and core network will be fully 3GPP compatible, allowing OneWeb to work together with providers in any regulatory environment, anywhere in the world.