European telecoms plan satellite service

A group of major European telecom companies, including Orange, Telefónica, Deutsche Telekom, and Vodafone, has announced plans to develop a shared satellite-based mobile service. The initiative aims to enhance the continent’s communications infrastructure and align with European Union goals for greater control and reliability in critical communications.

Focus on ground infrastructure

The companies have stated they will not directly invest in building a satellite constellation. Instead, they will concentrate on ground-based infrastructure and the management of network operations. A satellite provider will be chosen separately to supply the required space-based capabilities, unlike SpaceX, which builds its own satellites through its Starlink project.

Letter of intent signed

The agreement was formalized with a letter of intent signed on October 19. The consortium plans to apply for 2 GHz satellite frequencies, which the European Union will begin to reassign in 2027. These frequencies are crucial for next-generation mobile services and are expected to be contested by multiple providers.

Competition for frequencies

SpaceX is also anticipated to reclaim part of the 2 GHz spectrum in 2027. This indicates a growing competition among global players for access to key satellite frequencies, which are essential for expanding high-speed internet and mobile connectivity across Europe.