How ST Engineering Satellite Systems Redefine Telco Agility

ST Engineering iDirect, a global satellite communications company, has announced the general availability of Intuition 1.1, its next-generation ground system. Designed for multi-orbit operations, the cloud-native platform unifies satellite management, boosts operational efficiency and prepares operators for the evolving 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) landscape.

A subsidiary of ST Engineering, iDirect has more than 40 years of experience delivering satellite solutions that enable businesses to expand connectivity services, optimise networks and differentiate offerings.

Its iDirect-branded products are recognised globally for reliability, efficiency and high performance, supporting sectors including mobility, broadcast and military/government.

Cloud-native architecture reduces costs and boosts flexibility

At the heart of Intuition 1.1 is a cloud-native architecture that significantly lowers compute resource requirements.

Combined with the XBB high-density baseband solution, the system can reduce hardware needs by up to 70%, thereby decreasing the total cost of ownership (TCO) for satellite operators.

Its microservices-based modular design ensures rapid, low-risk deployments and easy feature upgrades, with minimal operational disruption.

Flexible cloud deployment options allow operators to scale efficiently, improving network performance without compromising reliability.

“Our vision with Intuition is to redefine agility and intelligent operations across the satellite industry,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, CTO and SVP of Engineering at ST Engineering iDirect.

“With its cutting-edge architecture, robust APIs to facilitate analytics and seamless readiness for 5G NTN, Intuition empowers customers to stay ahead in the rapidly changing connectivity landscape.

Our agile development practice and accelerated release delivery cycles will ensure that our customers have access to new capabilities and ongoing innovation to drive growth,” he adds.

Intelligent resource management for modern satellite networks

Intuition 1.1 integrates award-winning Mx-DMA MRC return waveform technology with global bandwidth management and advanced mobility functions.

The platform supports dynamic multi-orbit bandwidth pooling, automated resource allocation and rapid response to network demands.

Operators experience enhanced performance, optimise resource usage and reduce operational costs.

Satellite network orchestration APIs provide complete control over ground and space assets, enabling operators to harness the full potential of software-defined satellite technology.

AI-powered optimisation prepares operators for 5G NTN

When paired with iDirect’s AI-driven analytics platform, Intuition enables advanced network optimisation and operational insights.

The system is fully compatible with emerging 3GPP standards and lays the foundation for 5G NTN roaming, allowing operators to stay ahead of market demands.

Deploying Intuition today equips satellite operators to maximise return on investment, support high-density network growth and maintain readiness for the next generation of satellite communications.

Transforming satellite connectivity

Intuition 1.1 offers a software-driven approach to satellite ground operations, moving beyond traditional hardware-bound systems.

By adopting the platform, operators gain the agility, efficiency and scalability necessary to meet modern connectivity challenges.

ST Engineering iDirect’s mandate to continuous innovation ensures operators can access new features and capabilities through accelerated release cycles without operational disruption.

Combining advanced architecture, AI analytics and robust waveform technology, Intuition delivers cost-effective, high-performance satellite operations for businesses worldwide.