AI analytics platform promises to boost satellite network reliability
ST Engineering iDirect has announced an AI-powered network analytics platform designed to help operators identify and resolve satellite network issues before they develop into serious problems.
The platform aims to utilise real-time and historical operational data, including weather patterns, to forecast network throughput, detect anomalies and facilitate proactive interventions in satellite communications networks.
Operational efficiency
According to the company, the platform is intended to curtail network downtime and boost reliability, allowing communications service providers to meet customer expectations for consistent connectivity. The solution is also projected to lower operational costs, streamline resource management and support the transition from manual to more autonomous operating procedures.
Elaborating on the company's broader strategy, Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Technology Officer and Senior Vice President of Engineering at ST Engineering iDirect, stated:
"Our strategy goes beyond connectivity. We're developing value-added applications that help our customers run smarter, more resilient operations and create a true competitive edge. By enabling operators to resolve issues early, optimise resources, and boost workforce efficiency, our network analytics platform advances both business outcomes and customer satisfaction."
Proof of concept in practice
The company's claims have been put to the test through a recent proof of concept with Q-KON, a satellite communications provider in Africa. Q-KON used ST Engineering iDirect's platform to detect anomalies that were impacting network performance and identified an installation error before it affected service. Early detection meant that corrective measures were implemented, preventing degradation of service quality for Q-KON's customers.
Dr Dawie De Wet, Chief Executive Officer of Q-KON, explained how the platform's capabilities have potential value for day-to-day operations and the end-user experience:
"The insights gained from ST Engineering iDirect's network analytics platform will be transformative. The ability to predict and prevent issues before they impact service will raise our operational standards, ensure reliable connectivity for our customers and enable us to offer advanced service packages."
Addressing industry challenges
ST Engineering iDirect states that its network analytics platform addresses industry-wide challenges of managing satellite connectivity in environments subject to highly variable factors, such as weather and infrastructure quality. Through predictive analytics and automated intervention, the platform is designed to decrease the operator response time to incidents and reduce manual workload.
The shift toward predictive network management reflects recent trends in the satellite communications industry, where service quality and uptime are key differentiators in both enterprise and consumer markets. Maximising uptime and optimising resource allocation remain top management priorities for satellite operators as demand for reliable connectivity grows, especially in regions where terrestrial infrastructure remains limited or vulnerable to disruption.
Live demonstration planned
ST Engineering iDirect and Q-KON plan to demonstrate the anomaly detection use case of the network analytics platform at AfricaCom 2025. Live demonstrations will show how operators can take advantage of data-driven insights and predictive analytics to optimise network performance in a commercial context.
The introduction of such technology is likely to play a role in the ongoing digital transformation of network management, moving from reactive maintenance to more preventative practices based on artificial intelligence and machine learning.
With satellite communication services in Africa and other emerging markets facing unique operational and environmental challenges, the adoption of AI-based analytics may provide operators with more tools to ensure quality of service and cost-effective management.
