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European Telcos Plan Joint Satellite Spectrum Bid Against Starlink

European Telcos Plan Joint Satellite Spectrum Bid Against Starlink

First seen 19 Oct 2026, 16:20 UTC • •
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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster •October 20, 2026 at 16:14 UTC
  • •Four major European telcos are exploring a joint bid for satellite spectrum.
  • •The initiative aims to counter SpaceX's Starlink and enhance connectivity in underserved areas.
  • •The carriers will not invest in satellites but will develop ground infrastructure.

On October 19, 2026, Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone signed a letter of intent to explore a joint bid for mobile satellite services (MSS) spectrum in Europe. This initiative aims to create a European alternative to SpaceX's Starlink, focusing on providing direct-to-device services. The carriers plan to establish ground infrastructure and monitoring systems but will not invest in their own satellite constellation, relying instead on a yet-to-be-named partner. The collaboration is intended to enhance coverage in underserved areas, strengthen public network resilience, and support critical communications. The European Commission's goal of boosting digital sovereignty and security in connectivity infrastructure is also a driving factor behind this initiative. The operators are concerned about becoming dependent on external satellite services and aim to secure their own spectrum rights to negotiate better terms in the future.

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Timeline

2026-10-19
Joint bid letter of intent signed
Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone signed a letter of intent to explore a joint bid for MSS spectrum in Europe.
Lightreading
2026-10-19
AST SpaceMobile welcomes collaboration
AST SpaceMobile announced its support for the joint initiative, which aims to enhance network integration and coverage across Europe.
Markets.Ft
2026-10-19
European carriers outline goals
The four telecom companies stated their objectives include universal coverage and improved resilience for public networks.
Theverge

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Common questions

What is the purpose of the joint bid?
The joint bid aims to secure mobile satellite services spectrum to provide a European alternative to Starlink and enhance connectivity.
Who will provide the satellite constellation?
The satellite constellation will be supplied by a yet-to-be-named partner, as the carriers will not invest in their own satellites.
What are the expected benefits of this initiative?
The initiative is expected to improve coverage in underserved areas, strengthen public network resilience, and support critical communications.