In today’s evolving threat environment, modern militaries need communications that are not only secure and resilient but also easy to use on the battlefield. Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite communications (SATCOM) has the potential to not only transform consumer smartphone communications, but also the connectivity of the warfighter and those who provide critical support. Direct-to-device communications is one of the most talked-about trends in the SATCOM industry and for good reason. For the men and women on the frontlines, the ability to connect directly from satellites in space can not only securely bridge terrestrial communications gaps but lighten the operational load and enhance mission effectiveness especially by adding additional resilience.
Unlike traditional satellite communications, D2D has the potential to go beyond cellular networks to deliver secure voice, messaging, data, and IoT capabilities directly to existing mobile devices. This shift offers new advantages for asset location & integrity, mission-critical communications and military quality of life.
By giving ubiquitous access to devices soldiers and critical personnel already carry and are familiar with, D2D has the potential to reduce the number of separate devices personnel must carry. This simplification will improve access to information and situational awareness, while also improving quality of life by providing them the ability to communicate back home.
While D2D technology is generating significant attention, it is still in its early stages and not yet widely available to consumers or the military.
Defense Applications
For military and defense purposes, D2D won’t replace traditional SATCOM—but will augment it by providing additional, flexible and resilient pathways for connectivity.
Dismounted forces could benefit significantly from reliable, resilient communications via smartphones or tablets, improving operational effectiveness without the need for additional specialized equipment. For example, the Navy is exploring D2D to enhance the quality of life for deployed Sailors and Marines and allowing them to securely communicate with loved ones using familiar personal devices.
Highly sensitive, mission-critical transmissions will still require bespoke, hardened systems. However, the flexibility offered by D2D provides valuable redundancy, helping balance cost, capacity and operational risk.
D2D solutions also offer advantages for strengthening coalition operations. Future conflicts will require close coordination with allies, and ensuring partners have secure, convenient, compatible and resilient communications is a key strategic priority.
Continued collaboration will ensure that U.S. and allied forces can field interoperable systems that keep pace with emerging threats.
A Timeline for Military Adoption
Advances in satellite technology, global infrastructure, common standards and the development of 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN) standards are making D2D services possible. There is optimism that D2D capabilities will be adopted rapidly within defense organizations. Today’s military personnel have grown up with mobile technology and expect the same connectivity in their operational environments.
Despite differences in technical approaches, whether leveraging 3GPP standards or repurposing terrestrial spectrum, there is plenty of market opportunity for a range of D2D business models. No single solution will meet all operational needs, and a diversity of options strengthens overall resilience. A flexible, hybrid D2D ecosystem will be critical to supporting both commercial users and defense missions in the years ahead.
The satellite industry is proving that D2D connectivity is possible, with new constellations are launching and companies proving that this emerging capability is possible by connecting satellites in space to everyday devices like consumer smartphones. With global spectrum allocations underway and regulatory frameworks evolving to support this innovation, the path toward near-term operational deployment is in reach.
The Department of Defense and the U.S. Space Force’s Commercial Satellite Communications Office (CSCO) have already laid the groundwork for the rapid adoption of emerging services such as D2D.
D2D services will not only bolster warfighting communications—they’ll also enhance the quality of life for military personnel, offering a secure link back to home when conditions allow. Together, these advancements represent the next evolution of secure, global defense connectivity.
David Radi Bio
David Radi is responsible for driving innovation on behalf of Omnispace’s government solutions business. He brings a wealth of defense and space industry expertise to the role having previously served as the Director of Integrated Information Systems within Boeing Defense, Space & Security. Prior to that, he was the CEO of the Boeing-Kestrel business unit, providing analytic and technology solutions to a variety of U.S. government clients.
David’s business experience also includes responsibilities as Vice President for Operations, Chief Operating Officer and President at Kestrel Enterprises. Prior to that, David held a 20-year career as a naval intelligence officer serving on aircraft carriers and fleet command ships, as well as the Naval Aide to the Commander- in-Chief of the Atlantic Fleet. Ashore assignments included duty on the National Security Council Staff in the White House Situation Room, command of the Chief of Naval Operations Intelligence Plot, and service as the Deputy Executive Assistant to the Vice Chief of Naval Operations.
He holds a bachelor’s degree from the U.S. Naval Academy, a master’s degree from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government and was a Federal Executive Fellow at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He serves as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for Elizabeth Seton High School in Bladensburg, Md.
