WiSig and Viasat Partner on NB-IoT NTN Chipset for Satellite IoT

WiSig Networks has partnered with Viasat to develop an NB-IoT non-terrestrial network (NTN) chipset and module for Viasat’s global L-band satellite ecosystem, according to a statement given to ET Satcom.

The Indian telecom startup’s solution is designed to comply with 3GPP Release 17 and supports both L-band and S-band operations. It targets satellite IoT use cases including two-way messaging, location services and low-data-rate connectivity over satellite networks.

The technology, which originated from research at IIT Hyderabad, is currently being tested at Viasat’s UK laboratories for potential use across Viasat’s global satellite network. The companies are targeting standards-based satellite IoT services for maritime, government, enterprise and safety-of-life applications.

A key focus of the collaboration is the Indian market, where satellite IoT could support fishermen safety and tracking along the coastline, disaster response, maritime connectivity and remote operations for central and state government agencies. Viasat already operates a global L-band geostationary satellite network, including coverage in India through its partnership with BSNL.

The partnership was announced during Bharat Innovates 2026 in Nice, France, part of the India–France Year of Innovation 2026. The event is designed to showcase Indian deep-tech companies on a global stage.

WiSig said the chipset work is intended to support the transition toward 5G Advanced and future 6G NTN systems. The project has also received support from Indian government research and semiconductor initiatives, including Department of Telecommunications 5G/6G programmes and the Design Linked Incentive scheme under the India Semiconductor Mission.