Thaicom to offer 5G satellite backhaul
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Thai satellite operator Thaicom aims to carve out a new revenue stream by offering satellite backhaul capacity to the nation’s operators for their upcoming 5G networks.
Thaicom chief commercial officer Patompob Suwansiri said that satellite will be critical to the future of 5G networks.
According to the executive, Thaicom is currently working with operator AIS, an affiliate of its parent company InTouch Holdings, to prepare for the transition. The company already provides transponder capacity for backhaul for AIS, as well as TrueMove and operators in several other Asian nations.
The company is looking to replace the revenue that will be lost as a result of the exit of seven Thai digital TV channels in August.
Thaicom’s concession to operate three of its five satellites will also expire in 2021, but the company is planning to bid to obtain the operating rights to the satellite under a public-private partnership model for after the rights expire.
While satellite will not be able to deliver the low latencies expected for 5G networks, Patompob said around 80% of data traffic usage in the 5G era will be from applications that do not require low latency and will, therefore, be suited to satellite backhaul.
Questions & Answers
Q.Why is Thaicom seeking a new revenue stream from 5G satellite backhaul?
Why is Thaicom seeking a new revenue stream from 5G satellite backhaul?
Thaicom is looking to replace revenue lost from seven Thai digital TV channels exiting in August. Their concession to operate three satellites also expires in 2021, prompting the search for new income opportunities.
Q.Which specific operators are working with Thaicom on 5G backhaul preparations?
Which specific operators are working with Thaicom on 5G backhaul preparations?
Thaicom is currently collaborating with AIS, an affiliate of its parent company InTouch Holdings. They already provide backhaul capacity for AIS and TrueMove, as well as operators in other Asian nations.
Q.How will Thaicom manage its satellites once their operating concession ends?
How will Thaicom manage its satellites once their operating concession ends?
Thaicom plans to bid for operating rights to the satellites under a public-private partnership model. This is for after their concession to operate three of its five satellites expires in 2021.
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