The company says the NTN is a communication system that integrates satellite communication and airborne technologies along with terrestrial infrastructure, leveraging satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), and geostationary Earth orbit (GEO).

3GPP Release 17 introduces "NR NTN", which includes Non-Terrestrial Networks into the 5G New Radio (NR) standards. With this advance, 5G devices can connect to satellites using the same protocols as terrestrial base stations, paving the way for global 5G coverage beyond traditional infrastructure.

The PTCRB definition of NR NTN testing signifies the formal commencement of the NTN device certification process. Going forward, NR NTN is expected to be actively adopted by network operators worldwide to enhance service quality and expand coverage. Anritsu will contribute to the proliferation of NTN devices by providing certification test systems.

 Product Overview

The ME7873NR is a 3GPP-compliant 5G RF conformance test platform certified by both the Global Certification Forum (GCF) and PCS Type Certification Review Board (PTCRB). It supports Frequency Range 1 (FR1, Sub-6 GHz) out-of-the-box, and combining it with an OTA (CATR) chamber** adds support for Frequency Range 2 (FR2, mmWave).

 Learn more about "Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs)"

 * For PTCRB certification test cases related to NR NTN (Anritsu survey, December 2025)

** OTA (CATR) Chamber - Compact Antenna Test Range. A 3GPP-compliant CATR anechoic chamber designed to block external radio waves and prevent internal reflections to accurately measure wireless device performance via over-the-air transmission and reception.