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Welcome to the June edition of In Constellation, our space and satellite covering key legal, regulatory and commercial developments shaping the sector.

Drawing on Bird & Bird’s international expertise in satellite communications and space activities, each edition provides insights into the key trends affecting the industry.

Edited by Hayley Blyth and Willy Mikalef , with contributions from across our Space & Satellite team.

Please get in touch if you would like to any of the issues covered, or visit our webpage for more information Bird & Bird’s Space & Satellite practice.

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The European Commission has published a proposal to establish a new EU‑level framework for Mobile Satellite Services (MSS), ahead of the expiry of existing 2 GHz band authorisations in May 2027 (see the proposal here ). The proposal intends to replace the current regime with a single EU‑wide selection process for awarding MSS spectrum, aimed at supporting cross‑border connectivity and regulatory consistency.

Under the proposal, the 2 GHz band would be divided between governmental and commercial uses, with capacity reserved for security, defence and EU strategic programmes alongside commercial services, including direct‑to‑device connectivity and IoT applications.

The proposal includes a limited transitional mechanism and current authorisation holders, Viasat and EchoStar, may request an extension of up to two years, subject to restrictions including no expansion, transfer or leasing of rights.

The proposal will now proceed through the EU legislative process. If successful, based on Commission planning and broader commentary, the Regulation is expected to be adopted over the course of 2027/2028, with selection procedures expected in 2028/2029 and new authorisations granted around 2029.

The UK has also followed suit, with Ofcom publishing a consultation on the future use of 2 GHz MSS (see consultation here ). Similar to the EU, the UK is proposing an initial extension of the incumbent licenses, noting Ofcom is proposing a longer extension period of 3 - 5 years. During the extension period, Ofcom intends to determine the UK approach to longer term use of the band, and the current consultation is aimed at gathering feedback on Ofcom’s proposals and further information on longer-term demand for the band.

Written by Hayley Blyth and Willy Mikalef

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has outlined a series of spectrum management priorities affecting the space and satellite sector as part of its draft ‘Five-year spectrum outlook 2026–31 and 2026–27 work program’ (“ 5SYO ”). Of particular interest to the industry are the ACMA’s plans for the 2GHz MSS spectrum, which has been the subject of media speculation regarding the ACMA potentially reopening consultation on the allocation process for the spectrum. The peak industry body, the Australian Telecommunications Alliance's (ATA) Satellite Services Working Group (SSWG) has published its submission the draft 5YSO, welcoming aspects of the plan whilst raising concerns key design choices necessary to support the growth of direct-to-device services.

The European Parliament is advancing the proposed EU Space Law, with new committee opinions and amendments focused on competitiveness, sustainability, and operator oversight.

Japan and Italy held their first formal space consultation, with discussions covering space policy, security, industry cooperation and development of international norms.

Willy Mikalef Partner, France [email protected]

Hayley Blyth Associate, UK [email protected]