World's first Open RAN D2D LEO network to be built by MDA Space for EchoStar

World's first Open RAN D2D LEO network to be built by MDA Space for EchoStar
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Aug 05, 2025

EchoStar Corporation has chosen MDA Space as the prime contractor to develop the world's first 3GPP 5G-compliant low Earth orbit (LEO) direct-to-device (D2D) satellite constellation built on Open RAN architecture. The contract launches MDA Space into full-scale production of its software-defined MDA AURORA D2D satellites for a non-terrestrial network (NTN) expected to redefine global mobile connectivity.

The initial deal, worth approximately US$1.3 billion (C$1.8 billion), covers the design, manufacture, and testing of more than 100 LEO satellites. With contract options potentially expanding the constellation to over 200 spacecraft, total value could reach US$2.5 billion (C$3.5 billion). EchoStar anticipates eventually scaling the network into the thousands to support seamless talk, text, and broadband services directly to unmodified 5G devices worldwide.

Compliant with newly established 3GPP and NTN standards, the constellation will deliver real-time messaging, voice, video, and broadband to any compatible mobile device. It will also serve a wide array of sensors and mobile platforms, enabling new services across enterprise, public safety, and government sectors in the U.S., Europe, and beyond.

Hamid Akhavan, EchoStar's CEO, noted, "Our satellite expertise combined with our U.S.-based terrestrial 5G Open RAN network uniquely positions EchoStar to execute on this new large-scale wide-band LEO constellation."

As anchor customer for MDA's AURORA D2D product, EchoStar reinforces MDA Space's leadership in the NTN sector. The constellation will enable handovers between terrestrial and satellite networks, extending cellular reach to underserved and remote regions.

Mike Greenley, CEO of MDA Space, said, "EchoStar's selection of our new MDA AURORA D2D software-defined satellite...is a testament to the confidence satellite operators have in our deep expertise."

Key features of the AURORA D2D satellites include large user antennas, onboard 3GPP 5G NTN and Open RAN processors, optical intersatellite links, proprietary chipsets, and high-power efficiency. The satellites will be produced at MDA's Montreal facility, now undergoing a 185,000-square-foot expansion.

First satellite deliveries are slated for 2028, with commercial operations beginning in 2029. The contract will be reflected in MDA's Q3 2025 backlog and marks the company's fourth LEO constellation award in just over three years.