World Mobile Unveils Drone-Powered, Decentralized 5G Network in Global Connectivity Push

World Mobile has taken a bold leap in telecommunications, launching a blockchain-enabled, decentralized 5G network that utilizes high-altitude, hydrogen-powered drones to deliver wireless connectivity worldwide.

In partnership with Indonesian telecom leader Protelindo, the initiative—dubbed World Mobile Stratospheric—aims to address connectivity gaps where traditional infrastructure falls short, especially in underserved and remote communities.

Operating at an altitude of 60,000 feet, each World Mobile Stratospheric drone can cover an expansive 15,000 square kilometers using 450 targeted beams.

According to Charles Barnett, World Mobile Group’s Chief Business Officer, these drones offer significant advantages over satellite-based systems, achieving ultra-low latency at just 6 milliseconds and delivering data up to 18 times cheaper per gigabyte compared to space-based alternatives.

This next-generation aerial network is poised to capture market share in the burgeoning sky-based communications sector, projected to reach $159 billion by 2030.

World Mobile’s blend of airborne and ground-based decentralized physical infrastructure—backed by a network of independent providers—enables the extension of mobile service into dead zones that industry giants often overlook.

Overcoming Practical Challenges And Competitions

Launching and maintaining a stratospheric drone network is not without challenges. The hydrogen-powered drones, boasting a 56-meter wingspan and weighing in at four tons, are engineered to stay airborne for up to nine days before requiring refueling at specialized stations.

The drones are also designed to be lightweight to achieve optimal flight duration, able to withstand the harsh stratospheric conditions, and resistance to the heat from the sun.

Adhering to the regulations set by global civil aviation authorities—like the FAA in the U.S. and EASA in Europe—also remains a significant barrier for such projects.

World Mobile faces stiff competition from other decentralized wireless projects and established space-based communication providers.

Helium Mobile, for example, leverages a distributed network of wireless nodes, partnering with major carriers like AT&T to expand coverage and fill connectivity gaps.

Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s Starlink provides internet access through satellite technology, although the two companies fill a different niche, experts says.

While Starlink is more suited to deliver service to remote areas without any cellular connectivity, World Mobile Stratospheric is designed to serve more densely populated regions hungry for affordable, fast connectivity.