Four major European mobile operators are exploring a joint satellite service that could extend mobile coverage and reduce dependence on Elon Musk’s Starlink.
According to The Verge Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone have signed a letter of intent to consider a joint bid for European mobile satellite spectrum.
The proposal would support direct-to-device connections, allowing operators to integrate satellite coverage into existing mobile networks.
The operators intend to provide ground infrastructure, coordination and monitoring in Europe. A separate partner would supply the satellite constellation, leaving the four companies free from the expense of launching their own orbital hardware.
One sizeable gap in the plan is that the satellite partner has yet to be selected. The companies say the proposed service would offer other mobile operators access on open and non-discriminatory terms, helping extend coverage into underserved areas.
The announcement supports the European Commission’s push for greater European control of communications infrastructure. It remains an agreement to explore a possible spectrum bid, so customers should hold off celebrating the disappearance of rural dead zones.
The Verge reports that the EU has been considering reserving some spectrum in the 2GHz band for local satellite services, a proposal SpaceX has criticised because it will prevent Elon Musk from making more money. The operators said the initiative would leave their existing satellite partnerships in place.
SpaceX is in the centre of some controversy after Musk started using his network to enforce US foreign policy by switching off satellites used by the Ukrainians to bomb Russian oil refineries. Musk said that the White House insisted he do that, and the White House said it was Musk’s idea. However, no one really wants to depend on a service that another government or a tech bro who gives Roman salutes can switch off at will.
