The rapid evolution of technology demands agile solutions that enhance flexibility, efficiency, and resilience. Cloud-native architecture, long used in IT and Telco networks has now emerged as a fundamental requirement in addressing software-defined and 5G NTN foundational architectural needs in SATCOM. These systems redefine how networks are designed, shifting from traditional, hardware-dependent setups to scalable, software-driven ones to meet innovative demands with unmatched efficiency.
The ST Engineering iDirect whitepaper, Driving Scale with Cloud-Native and High-Density Ground Systems, dives deep into how cloud-native principles are transforming satellite network infrastructures. It examines key benefits such as scalability, resilience, operational efficiency, and robust security, all of which are exemplified in ST Engineering iDirect’s Intuition system.
Transforming Satellite Networks with
Cloud-Native Architectures
iDirect’s new cloud-native, multi-orbit ground system, Intuition, embodies the transformative potential of cloud-native architectures within satellite networks. Built on OpenShift, a Kubernetes-based platform, Intuition applies cloud-native principles to deliver unparalleled flexibility, scalability, and resilience.
One of Intuition’s most significant advancements lies in its modular design. The system abandons the monolithic structures of traditional systems in favor of cloud-native architecture based on containers and micro-services. Each microservice is self-contained, independently deployable, and focused on a specific function. This modularity allows operators to implement updates and enhancements without disrupting the entire system, streamlining software upgrades and testing & deployment cycles thus reducing operational risks.
The system’s ability to manage workloads dynamically and scale further underscores its adaptability and efficiency. Its high-density baseband processing and centralized data center architecture empower the streamlined management of multiple networks and carriers within a single system. Leveraging Kubernetes-style orchestration, it optimally allocates computational resources across distributed servers, scaling capacity in real time to meet demand. This intelligent approach minimizes over-provisioning, enhances resource efficiency, and delivers cost-effectiveness—reducing hardware footprints by up to 70%.
Resilience is integral to Intuition’s cloud-native design. Workloads are redistributed seamlessly across nodes during failures, ensuring uninterrupted service. Self-healing mechanisms can with the help of AI/ML driven automation resolve issues, maintaining operational continuity even under challenging conditions.
Security is deeply embedded within the Intuition system, aligning with the principles of cloud-native architecture. The system employs advanced security practices to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities proactively. This ensures that mission-critical satellite operations remain safeguarded from emerging threats.
Cloud-native designs are not just technological upgrades; they are strategic imperatives for operators preparing for the next generation of networks. With industries moving toward software-defined systems and 5G NTN, adopting these architectures is critical for achieving long-term competitiveness. They allow operators to respond rapidly to market changes, adapt to new software-defined architectures and reduce the overall cost of ownership through optimized resource allocation across a scalable cloud-native infrastructure.
To explore these innovations in further detail and take an in-depth look at the efficiency savings of different network design use cases, download the whitepaper and discover how cloud-native architectures are shaping the future of satellite networks.
Download the Whitepaper: Driving Scale with Cloud-Native and High-Density Ground Systems