Airbus´ High Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) Connectivity Business has signed a strategic partnership with Salam, a leading Saudi telecommunications and ICT company and part of the Mawarid Media & Communications Group (MMCG), to progress the development of private networks, internet of things (IoT) applications, disaster management solutions, and other connectivity and high-altitude Earth observation services from the stratosphere to serve Saudi Arabia.

“We see in Airbus’ Zephyr platform a key asset to provide private network services, IoT solutions as well as civil, governmental and non-governmental applications,” said Salam CEO Ahmad Al-Anqari. “There are numerous use cases for the platform’s capabilities and we look forward to this partnership with Airbus to serve the Saudi market in support of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.”

Airbus, a leader in the HAPS market with Zephyr, will provide low-latency, direct-to-device 5G connectivity services, in addition to persistent high-resolution imaging and live-video, delivered from the stratosphere. The company´s solution will support in bridging the digital divide and will bring connectivity services to those who are currently unserved or underserved from a solar powered and carbon neutral platform.

“In partnership with Salam, our Zephyr platform, with its demonstrated advanced capabilities, will be instrumental in serving several markets in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” said Jeff Smith, head of connectivity of Airbus´ HAPS Connectivity Business.