OQ Technology Launches Europe’s First Direct-to-Mobile Satellite Network
Luxembourg-based OQ Technology has kicked off its flagship 5NETSAT mission, securing a €2.5 million grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC) and additional equity backing from the EIC Fund. The project aims to demonstrate Europe’s first direct-to-mobile satellite network, delivering secure 5G messaging and emergency alerts directly to standard smartphones without hardware or software modifications.
The mission represents a major step toward Europe’s digital sovereignty and resilient space-based infrastructure. By enabling emergency SMS and broadcast alerts via satellite, 5NETSAT could transform disaster response and public safety communications, while also extending mobile access to underserved regions.
OQ Technology CEO Omar Qaise called the program a milestone in the company’s journey to become Europe’s first commercial D2M operator, highlighting its potential to be scalable, sustainable, and lifesaving. The initiative aligns closely with EU priorities such as IRIS², the Digital Decade, and the Gigabit Infrastructure Act, while also advancing global Sustainable Development Goals in areas like disaster resilience and climate action.
With EIC support secured, 5NETSAT marks the first step toward a wider OQ Technology constellation, positioning the company to deliver secure, resilient, and inclusive mobile connectivity across Europe and beyond.