Muscat: Omantel has entered into an agreement with Archangel Lightworks, a UK-based leader in optical and laser communications, aiming to accelerate advancements in satellite and optical communication services.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the collaboration is set to integrate Archangel Lightworks' laser-optic satellite ground station technologies into Omantel's network. This integration will support high-capacity and resilient digital infrastructure, thereby strengthening the connection between space-based and terrestrial communication systems.
In a statement, Omantel's General Manager of Technology Strategy and Innovation, Yousuf Nasser Mattar Al Azizi, emphasized that the partnership aligns with Oman's Vision 2040 goals for innovation and digital transformation, and supports the country's ambition to play a central role in future global communications.
Archangel Lightworks CEO, Richard Johanson, highlighted that the collaboration marks progress toward hybrid space and terrestrial networks capable of providing scalable and flexible connectivity.
The Smart Industry Initiative, involving the British Omani Society, BSG International, and Oxford Science Enterprises (OSE), facilitated the agreement. OSE, a major investor in Archangel Lightworks, played a pivotal role in forming the collaboration as part of its efforts to advance industrial innovation between the UK and Oman.
A phased program of proof-of-concept trials is scheduled to begin in 2026. These trials include validating Archangel Lightworks' TERRA-M optical ground station using data from test satellites. The program will also explore Ground Station as a Service (GSaaS) opportunities and hybrid radio frequency-optical satellite data downlinks.
This collaboration aims to pave the way for joint service models that integrate Archangel Lightworks' optical ground station and laser communication technologies into Omantel's infrastructure. Additionally, the partnership will extend to joint research and development, focusing on next-generation high-throughput optical systems and terrestrial point-to-point optical links.