European Union Debates Centralizing Satellite Spectrum
The Commission's proposal to manage 30 MHz of spectrum could reshape satellite connectivity standards across the bloc by 2027.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Telecommunications
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The European Commission has proposed a new regulation to centralize 2 GHz spectrum authorization for satellite services, moving away from a national-level process used since 2008. The plan aims to manage 30 MHz of spectrum to facilitate direct satellite-to-phone connectivity, but it currently faces opposition from member states.
Why it matters
The proposal seeks to eliminate the fragmentation of current national authorization conditions, which the Commission argues hinders the single market. With current authorizations for companies like Viasat and EchoStar expiring in May 2027, the outcome will dictate how satellite operators secure the rights to provide direct connectivity.
The framework involves a 2 GHz frequency band with 30 MHz of total bandwidth. This represents a shift from the decentralized national management system that has governed these authorizations since 2008.
The players
European Commission
The executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation and managing the bloc's single market policies.
Viasat
A global communications company providing satellite broadband services and secure networking systems for commercial and government users.
EchoStar
A satellite communications provider focused on connectivity solutions and mobile satellite services.
The details
The proposed regulation seeks to create two distinct authorization procedures for the 20 MHz of spectrum designated for commercial satellite operators. This move aims to standardize connectivity for mobile devices, enabling seamless switching between satellite and terrestrial networks. Member states have expressed concerns regarding the security implications of the 10 MHz reserved for government-specific communications.
Timeline
2008: National-level management of mobile satellite service selection begins.
May 2026: The European Commission presents the proposed regulation.
October 23, 2026: Member states submit formal contributions regarding the proposal.
May 2027: Current spectrum authorizations for Viasat and EchoStar expire.
The Tech Race
This proposal marks a significant departure from the decentralized national management of spectrum that has defined the European mobile satellite landscape since 2008. It reflects an intensifying race to establish unified, continent-wide direct-to-device satellite standards before existing authorizations expire.
The successful implementation of this framework is a prerequisite for widespread direct-to-phone satellite connectivity across the European Union. Users should expect no changes until at least May 2027, as current licenses remain in force until their expiration.
The takeaway
The move toward centralized spectrum authorization will define whether satellite connectivity remains a fragmented or unified service across Europe. Stakeholders should monitor the formal negotiations following the October 2026 submission period to see if France and other dissenting states force revisions to the plan.
Further reading
For broader coverage of regional infrastructure policies, visit Telecommunications.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Agence Europe.
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