Observed Signal · Nov 9, 2026 · Technical Milestone · Source: EU-Startups (European Venture) · Impact: 3/5 · Sentiment: Positive
SWISSto12 and UNIVITY complete CDR for space-based 5G antennas
Swiss SpaceTech startup SWISSto12 and French startup UNIVITY have successfully completed a Critical Design Review (CDR) for two active antenna systems designed to deliver 5G connectivity from space. The antennas, an S-band direct radiating array for direct-to-device connectivity and a Ka-band antenna for broadband and feeder links, will be integrated into UNIVITY's 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) demonstration satellites. This milestone moves the project closer to demonstrating broadband and direct-to-device connectivity through a single satellite architecture, combining European satellite manufacturing expertise with a homegrown approach to space-based telecommunications. The collaboration is part of UNIVITY's uniShape programme, supported by France 2030 and CNES, and aims to enable telecom operators to offer 5G services under their own brands, complementing terrestrial networks. SWISSto12's proprietary payload and antenna technology, including 3D printing, enabled the rapid CDR completion in less than a year.
This CDR milestone advances European sovereign satellite communications, with potential to enable direct-to-device 5G connectivity and boost the European SpaceTech ecosystem, though it is not yet operational and is niche.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- SWISSto12 and UNIVITY completed the Critical Design Review (CDR) for two active antenna systems for 5G connectivity from space.
- The antennas include an S-band direct radiating array for direct-to-device connectivity and a Ka-band antenna for broadband and feeder links.
- UNIVITY's uniShape programme aims to demonstrate 5G connectivity using Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellites.
- SWISSto12 secured €73 million in January and a €61 million Series C in July 2026; UNIVITY raised €27 million in April 2026.
- The collaboration is supported by France 2030 and the French Space Agency (CNES).
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