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Objectives
The objective of the RathlinConnex Project is to deliver and demonstrate an integrated end-to-end satcom System and Service that combines LEO and GEO satellite connectivity, private 5G, and terrestrial cellular into a unified, resilient communications platform. The product will be modular and scalable, allowing different combinations of connectivity technologies to be selected depending on local need or infrastructure availability. This could include 4G, 5G, LEO, GEO or a tailored mixture, creating a flexible and futureproof system architecture. The design will support long-term deployments, making it ideally suited for rural communities, small islands, and other locations facing long-standing digital exclusion.
The RathlinConnex system includes edge compute, IoT integration, SD-WAN capabilities via RazorLink, and remote management and diagnostics. These features work together to ensure continuity of service, intelligent traffic routing, and secure, policy-based network control, even in challenging environments with minimal existing infrastructure.
Benefits
On Rathlin Island, the advantages the product will offer includes the following:
• Deliver uninterrupted internet and IP services to remote communities with little to no existing infrastructure
• Integrate LEO satellite, GEO satellite, and terrestrial cellular into a seamless user experience, automatically bonding available links and migrating when necessary to maintain quality of service.
• Support a wide range of real-world use cases, including
• Emergency services communications, such as PSNI, NIFRS, and Ambulance
• Community broadband access for residents
• Internet of Things (IoT) telemetry for environmental, power, and weather sensors
• Tourist and small business connectivity
• Prove commercial and technical readiness by running operational workloads using production hardware, software, and connectivity providers
• Demonstrate flexible deployment models using fixed infrastructure, which can be scaled or adapted for different sites as required
To support commercial scalability and long-term viability, multiple revenue streams will be explored, including:
• Subscription-based managed connectivity, tailored to residential, commercial, and public sector customers
• Private 5G and IoT service packages, configured per customer requirements
• Maintenance and support contracts aligned to sector-specific service level expectations
• Licensing models for integration with telecom providers and system vendors
• Edge-hosted service delivery, enabling value-added digital services in underserved markets
Features
The product consists of an integrated end-to-end hybrid connectivity system combining LEO and GEO satellite services, private 5G, and terrestrial cellular technologies. The main components of the product are the Hybrid Edge appliance, RazorLink SD-WAN and related HCaaS cloud framework, IoT integration, and edge computing capabilities. The Hybrid Edge appliance with RazorLink integration will manage connectivity from multiple sources to provide seamless, resilient, and intelligent routing. It enables automated migration of bonded satellite and cellular links, ensuring continuous, high-quality service for remote and infrastructure-limited locations. The system also supports real-time data transmission, edge computing, and remote management, providing vital insights and diagnostics.
In its host environment, the system is deployed as fixed infrastructure, designed for use in remote or underserved areas, such as islands or rural communities. Its modular architecture allows for flexible configurations, enabling customers to choose the optimal mix of satellite and terrestrial connectivity based on their specific needs. This ensures scalability and adaptability, accommodating future expansion or changes in technology. The system operates in synergy with existing communication networks, filling the gaps where traditional terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable or unreliable, thereby improving connectivity and digital inclusion for end users.
Challenges
Rathlin Island and remote island communities present many unique challenges. Equipment and hardware used during the project and in future deployments will need to be capable of withstanding exposure to extreme coastal weather and salt water exposure. Remote islands typically lack the extensive traditional infrastructure present on mainland locations, particularly relating to variable power availability, and cause additional logistical challenges not only around transport of resources for the project, but also in terms of long term maintenance and support.
System Architecture
LEO satellite Terminal: Provides low Earth orbit satellite connectivity, enabling high-speed, low-latency communications for remote locations
GEO Satellite Terminal: Delivers global, geostationary satellite connectivity, providing reliable and consistent coverage over wide areas
Hybrid Edge Appliance: Central control unit that orchestrates multiple connectivity sources (LEO, GEO, cellular), ensuring seamless and intelligent routing for end-user applications
RazorLink SD-WAN Software: Manages the connectivity from multiple network sources, providing dynamic routing, bandwidth management, and network resiliency
HCaaS Software: Provides the RazorLink SD-WAN HSG-HCB management layer
LoRa WAN Gateway: Allows integration of local IoT sensors and devices for data collection, environmental monitoring, and automation. Supports wide-area, low-power communication
User Interface: Allows control and monitoring of multiple peripherals and devices
Private 5G Network: Provides secure, high-speed private cellular network solutions for businesses or critical infrastructure
Long-Range Cellular Antenna (Excell): Enhances cellular coverage in remote areas, enabling reliable connections to the network, even in challenging terrains or distant locations
Edge Computing Platform: Supports local data processing and storage, reducing latency and reliance on centralised cloud resources
Remote Management Platform: Provides monitoring, diagnostics, and proactive maintenance of all connected devices and systems
Broadcast antenna/Mast: Fixed infrastructure to distribute connectivity from the central hub across Rathlin Island
Plan
The project is twelve months in duration and covers the following three ESA phases; Definition, Product and Demonstration.
The following milestones are planned:
Current Status
Current status:
Companies
