Observed Signal · Oct 19, 2026 · Market Signal · Source: Vodafone · Impact: 2/5
Four European operators sign Letter of Intent to explore a joint bid for Mobile Satellite Services spectrum and advance Direct-to-Device services
Four European operators have signed a Letter of Intent to explore a joint bid for Mobile Satellite Services spectrum, aiming to advance Direct-to-Device services.
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Four European operators sign Letter of Intent to explore a joint bid for Mobile Satellite Services spectrum and advance Direct-to-Device services
Four European operators have signed a Letter of Intent to explore a joint bid for Mobile Satellite Services spectrum and advance Direct-to-Device services.
Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, Vodafone Consider Joint MSS Bid
Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone have signed a letter of intent to explore a joint bid for European Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) frequencies. The initiative aims to enable Direct-to-Device (D2D) services, allowing mobile phones to connect directly to satellites, and to close coverage gaps, particularly in underserved regions. The four telecom operators plan to keep ground infrastructure and control functions in Europe, while tapping a satellite partner for space infrastructure. The consortium intends to offer open, non-discriminatory access to other European network operators, fostering a unified market approach and reducing dependency on non-European solutions. This aligns with European Commission goals for digital sovereignty and resilient critical infrastructure. However, the bid is not yet binding, and no timeline or partner selection has been announced.
European Telecom Giants Team Up for Satellite Mobile
Deutsche Telekom, Telefónica, Vodafone, and Orange have signed a letter of intent to jointly bid for mobile satellite service frequencies, aiming to build a Europe-wide satellite-to-phone service. The frequencies, expected to become available in 2029 and currently used for in-flight internet, will help provide ubiquitous coverage in underserved areas, enhance network resilience, and support European sovereignty. The consortium will provide ground infrastructure, while satellites will be supplied by an external partner. The EU is expected to reserve two-thirds of the spectrum for European providers, partly to counter Starlink's growing dominance in direct-to-device (D2D) communications. The network will offer non-discriminatory access to all European mobile operators, and D2D services are expected to enter the mass market in the coming years.
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