SpaceX’s Starlink is rolling out its V3 generation satellites, designed to deliver significantly higher data throughput and expanded network capacity as part of its global broadband expansion strategy.
The upgraded satellites will support faster and more reliable internet access across regions with limited terrestrial connectivity.
At the core of the V3 satellite network is the X2 Ethernet switch developed by Xsight Labs, a semiconductor firm founded in 2017. According to the company, the chip is manufactured using TSMC’s 5-nanometer process and has successfully passed environmental qualification tests, enabling it to operate under the demanding conditions of space. Starlink operates a constellation of low-Earth-orbit satellites and currently launches close to 2,000 satellites annually, with a long-term goal of building a fleet of up to 42,000 units.
Key Highlights
Starlink V3 satellites promise higher data throughput
Xsight’s X2 chip powers next-generation satellite networking
Expanded capacity supports faster global internet coverage
The V3 satellites are designed for deployment using SpaceX’s Starship launch vehicle, allowing greater capacity per satellite compared to earlier versions launched via Falcon 9.
To support low-latency performance, Starlink maintains more than 100 gateway sites across the United States, equipped with over 1,500 ground antennas. These gateways connect satellite traffic to terrestrial networks and play a critical role in managing increasing data volumes as V3 satellites come online.
The added network capacity is expected to drive higher traffic into ground-based infrastructure, creating opportunities for data centres, colocation providers, internet exchanges, and content delivery networks near gateway locations.
With Starlink serving millions of active subscribers globally, improved satellite-to-ground integration could further enhance broadband access for homes, businesses, and remote communities.
