European Mobile Giants Unite to Challenge Starlink with New Satellite Initiative

Image: Major European mobile carriers are teaming up for a ‘direct’ satellite program without Starlink · Source

Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone plan a joint bid for satellite spectrum to develop direct-to-device satellite services, aiming to compete with SpaceX's Starlink by collaborating with an unnamed satellite partner for the constellation.

Leading European mobile network operators Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone have joined forces in a strategic letter of intent to jointly bid for spectrum that could enable a direct-to-device satellite service competing with SpaceX's Starlink. This initiative signals a significant push by major European telecom players to enhance network coverage in underserved areas and ensure greater resilience and security for public communications across the continent.

Unlike Starlink, which operates its own constellation and infrastructure, these four operators intend to manage the essential ground network infrastructure — including coordination and monitoring centers — within Europe. The satellite constellation itself will be provided by a yet-to-be-announced external satellite partner. This partnership model combines the telecom companies' regional governance advantages and market access with the technical expertise and operational capabilities of an experienced satellite operator.

The move reflects a growing trend as mobile network operators seek to integrate satellite capabilities directly into their service offerings to extend coverage to rural and remote zones. Earlier this year, US carriers AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon revealed a similar collaborative plan to pool spectrum resources aimed at bolstering satellite-enabled services for improved rural connectivity.

Europe's initiative extends beyond commercial goals; it is also designed to strengthen critical communication networks and support the creation of a European satellite constellation ecosystem. This could help reduce reliance on non-European entities and enhance the security of communications infrastructure.

However, this plan unfolds amid regulatory discussions within the European Union regarding the allocation of spectrum in the 2 GHz band for local satellite operators, a proposal that has drawn criticism from SpaceX due to concerns over potential impacts on Ukrainian connectivity.

By leading ground infrastructure development and partnering with an experienced satellite operator, these European mobile carriers aim to accelerate deployment and market readiness for satellite broadband services tailored to local needs. While details about the satellite partner and exact timelines remain undisclosed, the collaboration marks a pivotal step in expanding satellite connectivity options within Europe, providing a credible alternative to SpaceX's dominant Starlink service.