
Several UK-based and European technology companies, including Excelerate Technology, Eutelsat (OneWeb) and Livewire Digital, have today launched a new solution called NOMADLINK, which is a trailer pulled unit that can be used to deliver emergency broadband and voice connectivity to major incidents, large public events, and rural or isolated communities across the UK.
The purpose-built connectivity trailer, which is also peppered with solar panels to keep the batteries running (hybrid power), is essentially designed to function as a rapid-deploy Wide Area Network (WAN) gateway that creates a private cellular network wherever it’s needed, regardless of terrain or weather.
The solution, which is supported by the UK Space Agency (UKSA) and the European Space Agency (ESA)’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) programme, promises broadband speeds that can reach up to “gigabit” levels (1000Mbps) by “dynamically bonding and managing multiple bearers” (i.e. linking 4G / 5G cellular and other connection types together, where available).
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This is a software‑defined approach that aims to deliver an “always‑on” capability, as well as “uninterrupted data, telemetry, and situational awareness“, including an integrated LoRaWAN gateway for IoT devices. The system integrates LEO and GEO satellite connectivity via vehicle‑mounted terminals operating on Eutelsat’s OneWeb constellation. A 4G extended‑range antenna and dual 5G‑capable modems then enhance performance where terrestrial networks are available, and it can also connect into existing Wi‑Fi and Ethernet (wired) networks.
Rebecca Irving, Telecommunications Lead at UKSA, said:
“NOMADLINK is a compelling example of what becomes possible when British innovation, satellite technology and public-private collaboration come together. The UK Space Agency is proud to support a solution that puts cutting-edge space-enabled connectivity in the hands of emergency responders, rural communities and event organisers who need it most. This project demonstrates exactly the kind of real-world impact we want to see from the UK’s growing space sector – keeping people connected when and where it matters most.”
Steve Mills, Vice President for Global Government at Eutelsat, said:
“Reliable connectivity is essential for emergency response, public safety and rural resilience. NOMADLINK demonstrates how our OneWeb LEO constellation can be deployed rapidly to deliver secure, high-speed connectivity in remote and challenging environments. We’re proud to support this collaboration and help strengthen the UK’s ability to stay connected when it matters most.”
The NOMADLINK trailer is currently being prepared for trials, with the first deployments being due to take place during this spring/summer 2026. Running from March 2026 to February 2027, the project aims to raise awareness, build partnerships, and secure pilot deployments across key UK sectors including emergency services, agriculture, local government, events, and rural industries.
No word on cost yet, but this seems more focused on emergencies and events than general rural broadband provision. Some mobile operators, like EE, already have specialist vehicles that can work in a roughly similar sort of way.
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