Advanced Communications: global connectivity and security across the invisible spectrum

In today’s environment, connectivity is no longer a luxury; it has become critical infrastructure. Whether coordinating drones during a rescue mission, managing a smart power grid or enabling maritime surveillance applications through satellites in low Earth orbit, the robustness of data links is essential.

Communications have been at the technological core of Gradiant since its foundation. Thanks to the team’s extensive experience, our capabilities range from the design of advanced hardware for communication systems to software solutions for implementing advanced communication protocols and algorithms. We operate across both terrestrial and satellite communications and are actively working towards the evolution to 6G.

Today, we take a closer look at some of the capabilities and developments that we will showcase at New Space España 2026, the event that will bring together the space innovation ecosystem in Vigo.

Bridging Earth and space: Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)

For most people, mobile coverage usually depends on a nearby tower or antenna, such as those installed on the rooftops of some buildings. But what happens in the middle of the ocean or in a disaster area affected by an earthquake?

At Gradiant, we research and develop the integration of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) into 5G and 6G networks. This means creating a hybrid system in which satellites act as space-based mobile towers, helping ensure that a device remains connected regardless of what happens on the ground.

We are also advancing Integrated Sensing and Communications (ISAC) technology. Imagine a system that, while transmitting data, simultaneously operates as a radar or as a localisation and positioning system. This enables much smarter infrastructure. For example, vessels could map maritime traffic while a satellite provides them with broadband connectivity using a single piece of equipment, reducing both weight and costs.

Monitoring the “silent battlefield”: Signals Intelligence (SIGINT)

The radio spectrum, the range of frequencies used to transmit wireless signals, is an essential resource for communications and needs to be protected. This is where Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) comes into play: if communications are speech, SIGINT can be thought of as the sense of hearing.

These technologies make it possible to detect, identify and locate emissions across the spectrum, even when many signals coexist within the same area or when interference is present.

Investing in these capabilities is therefore strategic both for civil security and for defence. In practical terms, these technologies can enhance situational awareness in several ways:

• Detecting interference and unauthorised use: rapidly identifying signals that could affect critical services or infrastructure.
• Determining where a signal comes from: combining signal processing with artificial intelligence to locate emissions and gain a better understanding of what is happening in the surrounding environment.
• Simplifying spectrum monitoring: using portable solutions capable of automatically classifying signals and identifying interference, even for non-specialist users.

These capabilities make SIGINT a dual-use discipline, supporting the detection and anticipation of threats in an increasingly contested electromagnetic domain.

Taken together, these technologies help protect essential services and manage an already congested spectrum more efficiently. By optimising spectrum use and ensuring that signals reach their destination securely and efficiently, Gradiant not only drives innovation but also helps safeguard Europe’s strategic autonomy in a world that is increasingly dependent on wireless communications.

Gradiant at New Space España 2026

Our presence at New Space España 2026, taking place in Vigo on 24 and 25 September, will provide an ideal setting to demonstrate how these advanced communications capabilities are transforming the industry.

At this professional forum, we will share first-hand our progress in integrating Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) into 5G and 6G technologies, as well as our Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) solutions and ISAC systems, designed to create more efficient space infrastructure by combining communications and sensing within a single device.

New Space España is not only an opportunity to showcase technology, but also to connect the ecosystem and collaborate in building a safer and more connected orbital environment.o para conectar el ecosistema y colaborar en la creación de un entorno orbital más seguro y conectado.