Keysight Technologies, Inc. has been selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to lead a three-year development program focused on creating secure, blockchain-enabled anomaly detection for 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN). The initiative aims to address growing complexities in space-based networks, where interactions between satellites, ground systems, and terrestrial 5G infrastructure create new challenges related to quality of service, anomaly management, and operational security. This project is critical as non-terrestrial infrastructure is expected to play a central role in future 6G networks, requiring trusted, verifiable data to enable autonomous and AI-driven operations.

The program is funded under ESA’s Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity program line within the Agency’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES). Keysight will serve as the prime contractor, leveraging its design, test, and measurement expertise to explore the application of blockchain, AI, machine learning (ML), and digital calibration certificates across the full NTN lifecycle. Sateliot will collaborate to support key technical development and satellite mission integration.

Project Objectives and Technology

The project is designed to establish a secure, verifiable trust framework for NTN environments. By integrating blockchain and AI technologies, the program aims to enhance the integrity and reliability of space-based IoT, 5G, and future 6G communications. The development will progress from laboratory research and prototyping to a full in-orbit demonstration, validating how blockchain-anchored trust, autonomous anomaly detection, and secure telemetry can be applied in operational satellite environments.

Strategic Importance

The ESA-funded program is expected to inform future NTN operations and strengthen Europe’s position in secure satellite connectivity. The initiative seeks to protect networks from spoofing, tampering, and other cyber threats while accelerating the adoption of trusted space-based 5G/6G networks worldwide.

Executive Commentary

Albert Pujol, Chief Innovation Officer at Sateliot, stated that the program represents a definitive shift toward integrating space-based assets into a secure, unified 5G ecosystem. He emphasized that anchoring blockchain within orbital operations creates a transparent validation layer, allowing massive IoT networks to scale globally while ensuring security and performance.

Antonio Franchi, Head of the Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity programme at ESA, said the future of Europe’s connectivity depends on networks that are trusted, resilient, and secure. He noted that supporting this project underscores ESA’s commitment to pioneering technologies required to safeguard the integration of non-terrestrial and terrestrial networks.

Eric Taylor, Vice President, Aerospace, Defense and Government Solutions at Keysight, said the initiative represents a major step toward securing hybrid space–terrestrial networks. He highlighted that combining test and measurement expertise with AI-driven assurance and blockchain technologies will demonstrate how trust can be embedded across the full NTN lifecycle.

Morgan Stanley analyst Meta Marshall upgraded Keysight Technologies from Equal-Weight to Overweight, raising the price target to $400 from $350. The upgrade reflects a more positive outlook on the stock. Keysight shares closed at $322.05 on Friday.

Rating Change

Keysight Technologies received an upgrade from Equal-Weight to Overweight. The new rating indicates a stronger bullish stance from the firm.

Price Target Adjustment

The price target for Keysight Technologies was increased to $400, up from the previous target of $350.