Four telecom giants seek spectrum for a direct satellite program: major European mobile carriers teaming without Starlink
Carriers explore shared bid
Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone signed a letter of intent outlining a possible joint bid for spectrum. The proposed effort aims to support European direct-to-device satellite competition with SpaceX’s Starlink.
The companies say they would manage ground infrastructure. A separate satellite operator, whose identity has not been announced, would provide the constellation and satellite expertise.
Stated aims for Europe
The carriers describe the initiative as a response to demand for coverage in underserved areas. They also cite stronger resilience for public networks and protection for critical communications. Their statement says the partnership would combine European governance and market access with established satellite technology and deployment experience, while supporting development of a European constellation.
US and EU developments
AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon announced a US collaboration earlier this year. Their plan is to combine spectrum in rural areas and dead zones, aiming to increase capacity and improve customer experience while helping satellite providers reach more people through a unified platform.
Key points
- Four European telecom companies are considering a joint spectrum bid for satellite services.
- The carriers would supply ground infrastructure, while an unnamed partner would provide satellites.
- The initiative cites underserved-area coverage, network resilience, and critical communications as priorities.
- The EU is considering reserving some 2 GHz spectrum for local satellite providers.