CBNG Launch UK Next Gen 5G-based Fixed Wireless Broadband Platform

The Cambridge Broadband Networks Group (CBNG), which develops network tech for mobile and wireless broadband operators, has launched the latest generation of their Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) platform – VectaStar NR. The new kit is said to be designed to “deliver ‘fibre like’ broadband [performance] using 5G-based technology … without the time, cost and disruption of fibre rollouts“.

The VectaStar NR platform and hardware is said to use licensed mmWave spectrum and a Point-to-Multipoint (PtMP) architecture to connect large numbers of homes, businesses, campuses and public-sector sites from a single hub. At launch the kit seems to work with the n260 (37–40 GHz) radio spectrum band, but they’re also working to add support for n257 (26.5–29.5.5 GHz), n258 (24.25–27.5 GHz), n259 (39.5–43.5 GHz) and n261 (27.5–28.35 GHz).

The platform also introduces a more compact form factor, advanced beam-forming phased-array antennas and a simplified architecture that is said to make it easier for operators to integrate, scale and manage within existing networks. This setup is said to allow network operators to deploy high-performance broadband in “days rather than months, while maintaining carrier-grade reliability and predictable quality of service“.

According to CBNG’s website, the new platform should be able to deliver much higher data throughput and at “great range“, with data speeds of up to 6.5Gbps per 90° sector – achieving 3.5Gbps at 5km of distance. But of course we’ve yet to see how this pans out in a real-world setting and under high load. The performance will also depend upon what kind of radio spectrum it can harness each setup, as well as backhaul capacity etc.

Nedko Ivanov, CBNG CEO, said:

“Today’s world runs on AI, cloud computing and HD streaming, yet for many communities and businesses the last mile of connectivity remains a major bottleneck. Traditional fibre is expensive and can be slow, expensive and disruptive to deploy, while conventional wireless solutions often struggle to keep pace with rapidly growing data demands.

VectaStar NR reimagines how high-capacity broadband is delivered. We can provide fiber-grade connectivity over the air, without the cost and disruption of digging up streets and laying cables.

Operators are under intense pressure to expand coverage and capacity faster, while controlling costs. VectaStar NR brings together the performance of 5G, the efficiency of point-to-multipoint and the predictability of licensed spectrum to make high-capacity fixed wireless access a practical, scalable option for the next phase of network growth.”

The platform is being targeted at mobile and fixed operators, wireless ISPs and neutral-host providers, as well as municipalities and campus owners deploying private 5G networks for smart cities, CCTV and campus-wide connectivity. CBNG plans to showcase VectaStar NR at Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona (Hall 7, Stand 7C30).