Liquid Intelligent Technologies, a leading provider of fibre broadband and satellite connectivity across Africa, has entered into an exclusive partnership with Globalstar, a prominent US-based satellite firm, to bring Globalstar’s cutting-edge private 5G solutions to Africa and the Middle East. This strategic collaboration positions Liquid Intelligent Technologies as the exclusive distributor of Globalstar’s XCOM RAN private 5G solution in these regions, with potential expansion into Globalstar’s non-terrestrial satellite network connectivity, Band n53 spectrum, and IoT solutions.

Liquid Intelligent Technologies, a subsidiary of Cassava Technologies headquartered in London, operates across more than 40 markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. The newly formed partnership focuses on deploying Globalstar’s XCOM RAN system in Africa and the Middle East, regions where Cassava Technologies has a strong presence.

Globalstar’s XCOM RAN product leverages its proprietary Band n53 spectrum, an 11.5 MHz segment of mid-band time-division duplexing (TDD) spectrum at 2483.5-2495 MHz. This unique spectrum, approved by 3GPP for both 4G and 5G networks, offers a significant advantage as a rare mid-band resource not owned by traditional wireless operators. The XCOM RAN system is designed to deliver superior performance, offering up to four times the capacity gains compared to standard 5G NR systems in both uplink and downlink transmissions. Globalstar highlights the system’s enhanced reliability, addressing common challenges such as radio interference and handover losses.

The collaboration between Liquid Intelligent Technologies and Globalstar is poised to revolutionize various industries, including mining and high-end markets in the Middle East and Gulf regions. The integration of XCOM RAN with Globalstar’s globally licensed n53 spectrum creates a unique and compelling offering for private and enterprise 5G networks. The partnership will also support AI-driven applications, further expanding the capabilities of these networks.

Strive Masiyiwa, Founder and Chairman of Liquid Intelligent Technologies, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce this groundbreaking private 5G technology to large enterprises, such as mines, enabling them to establish their own networks and support NextGen services like AI. This represents a significant leap forward for our customers in Africa and the Middle East.”

Hardy Pemhiwa, President and CEO of Cassava Technologies, added, “This partnership with Globalstar will enable us to deliver unparalleled connectivity solutions to our customers, aligning with our vision of becoming a leading technology company rooted in African heritage.”

Paul Jacobs, CEO of Globalstar, commented, “Liquid Intelligent Technologies is a leader in key regions that are rapidly adopting advanced wireless technologies. Together, we will drive the deployment of cutting-edge 5G solutions, enhancing safety, automation, and remote control capabilities in high-value environments across Africa, the Middle East, and the Gulf regions.”

Liquid Intelligent Technologies will provide comprehensive customer support for Globalstar’s products and services, including technical assistance and warranty services, ensuring seamless implementation and operation of the new 5G solutions.