NextNav, a leader in next-generation terrestrial positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) and 3D geolocation solutions, has expanded strategic and technology partnership with Tokyo-based MetCom. The collaboration marks the first international partnership built on NextNav’s 5G-based 3D PNT solution, underscoring growing global demand for terrestrial complements to Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) like GPS.
As part of the agreement, MetCom has licensed NextNav’s 5G-based 3D PNT technology - including 5G waveform and receiver technologies to initially power a new generation of terrestrial timing services in Japan’s largest metropolitan areas. The partnership integrates NextNav’s world class PNT expertise with MetCom’s deep experience in building nationwide service infrastructure in Japan.
“Our partnership with MetCom highlights how NextNav’s 5G-based 3D PNT solution can serve as a foundation for resilient location and timing services worldwide,” said Mariam Sorond, CEO of NextNav and a MetCom board member. “Japan has long been a leader in advanced telecommunications, and this collaboration represents an important step toward expanding terrestrial PNT solutions to meet global demand.”
MetCom plans to use NextNav’s PNT technology to build a terrestrial 5G network and offer timing services as a complement and backup to GNSS, in major Japanese cities utilizing radio licenses currently in process with the Japanese regulatory agencies.
“Our partnership with NextNav gives MetCom access to world class 5G-based 3D PNT technology that strengthens Japan’s ability to deliver reliable PNT capabilities in complex urban environments,” said Yoshioki Chika, CEO of MetCom. “Together, we are laying the groundwork for the next evolution of location and timing services, and building a resilient society in Japan and around the world.”
NextNav’s technology complements Japan’s PNT capabilities with a terrestrial solution that provides critical resilience for infrastructure systems. This collaboration demonstrates how NextNav’s technology can be commercialized internationally, and help solve the need for a complement and backup to GPS.
Click here to learn more about NextNav's 5G-based 3D PNT Technology
