This paper provides an overview of some of the recent technology developments and R&D activities supported by the European Space Agency for next generation satellite communication payloads based on active antennas and onboard digital processing functions. In particular, recent technology developments on active antennas for LEO, MEO and GEO missions, including HPA MMICs, are presented. An introduction to R&D activities in the area of digital signal processing and digital beamforming, as well as in signal processing techniques for MIMO satellite systems is also provided. Possible future satellite systems supporting 5G are also introduced.