As digital infrastructure becomes more integral to societal well-being and economic growth, it is essential to overcome the geographic and environmental limitations of terrestrial networks. 6G NonTerrestrial Networks (NTNs) represent a revolutionary extension of digital connectivity, integrating space and airborne platforms into the mobile ecosystem to provide secure, resilient, and ubiquitous coverage across the globe.

This whitepaper outlines the European Space Agency’s (ESA) bold vision to position Europe at the forefront of 6G NTN innovation. Through coordinated action across research, standardization, infrastructure development, and industrial collaboration, Europe can lead the deployment of a sovereign, open, and inclusive global communications fabric.