European Telecom Giants Team Up to Pursue Satellite Spectrum for Mobile Services

Image: Illustrative image · Christine Matthews  · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Source

Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefonica, and Vodafone have jointly agreed to explore a bid for satellite spectrum in the 2GHz band to advance direct-to-device capabilities across Europe.

Four of Europe's major telecom operators—Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefonica, and Vodafone Group—have signed a letter of intent to collaboratively pursue a future allocation of satellite spectrum dedicated to Mobile Satellite Services (MSS). This initiative supports the European Commission's goal to enhance sovereignty, security, and resilience in the continent's critical connectivity infrastructure.

The spectrum in question lies within the 2GHz band, reserved exclusively for European entities by the European Commission. Previous reports revealed that these operators are in discussions to bid on roughly one-third of this spectrum allotment. Through a collective approach, the providers envision granting open and non-discriminatory access to the spectrum. This model aims to foster healthy competition, reduce market fragmentation, and expand consumer choices for direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity throughout Europe.

The operators intend to leverage satellite technology to improve coverage in underserved regions, bolster public networks, protect vital communication channels, and support the emergence of a European satellite constellation, thereby promoting regional technological independence.

Rather than investing directly in launching satellites, the group plans to establish essential ground infrastructure and develop robust coordination and monitoring frameworks. This approach leaves room for forming partnerships with a satellite operator yet to be chosen.

It's important to note that this letter of intent does not override any existing satellite collaborations. Vodafone, for instance, already has a significant satellite venture underway with US-based AST SpaceMobile.

Industry analysts view this move as an exploratory agreement rather than a firm commitment. Paolo Pescatore of PP Foresight highlighted that the success of this endeavor depends heavily on effective implementation, compatibility of consumer devices, competitive pricing, and assuring customers they can remain connected in more locations.

This joint effort marks a significant step in integrating satellite services more seamlessly with terrestrial mobile networks, potentially enhancing connectivity options across the European continent.