Adtran and Iridium Enhance PNT Resilience in Europe and Asia-Pacific with Satellite Time and Location Technology
June 25, 2024
In response to escalating cyber threats targeting Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), Adtran has announced a strategic partnership with Iridium Communications Inc. to introduce advanced synchronization solutions featuring Iridium® Satellite Time and Location (STL) technology. This initiative, now available in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, represents a critical advancement in safeguarding vital infrastructure from GNSS vulnerabilities.
Adtran’s Oscilloquartz solutions, now equipped with Iridium® STL services, provide network operators with a fortified alternative for delivering precise and secure timing through low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. This integration ensures continuous synchronization even in scenarios where GNSS signals are compromised, thus enhancing the resilience of 5G networks, defense systems and other crucial sectors.
Addressing Emerging Challenges with Innovative Solutions
The OSA 5405-S PTP compact grandmaster clock and OSA 5400 STL module are now available to timing network operators across Western and Eastern Europe, Turkey and significant parts of the Asia-Pacific including Southeast Asia, Japan and South Korea. These devices utilize LEO satellites to transmit encrypted signals that are exponentially stronger than those of GNSS, significantly mitigating risks associated with signal disruption and manipulation.
Michael O’Connor, Executive Vice President of PNT at Iridium, underscored the importance of this technology: “As our reliance on PNT data intensifies, so do the threats to GNSS. By incorporating our STL service into Adtran Oscilloquartz devices, we provide network operators with reliable alternatives for precise timing. This is particularly critical for indoor environments or as a secure backup during GNSS outages.”
Tailored Solutions for Modern Network Demands
Adtran offers Iridium® STL services through two distinct purchasing models designed to accommodate varying operational and financial requirements. The ‘opex model’ offers an annual service license for adaptable yearly budgeting while the ‘capex model’ includes STL services bundled with essential equipment for 3, 5, or 10 years, facilitating cost amortization akin to traditional GNSS systems.
Gil Biran, General Manager of Oscilloquartz at Adtran, emphasized the alignment of Adtran’s and Iridium’s objectives: “Our collaboration aims to enhance the resilience of PNT networks globally. The integration of STL services within our zero-trust architecture ensures reliable PNT even in the event of GPS signal failures. This not only reduces the need for costly installations but also ensures robust performance in demanding environments.”
A Milestone in Infrastructure Resilience
The deployment of Iridium® STL services within Adtran’s Oscilloquartz solutions marks a significant milestone for network operators in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. By offering a dependable and secure timing solution, these innovations support the uninterrupted operation of mission-critical networks, contributing to the stability and efficiency of essential services upon which millions rely.
