Major European mobile carriers are teaming up for a ‘direct’ satellite program without Starlink
Major European mobile carriers including Deutsche Telekom and Vodafone are forming a coalition to develop a direct-to-device satellite service. This initiative aims to compete with SpaceX's Starlink by utilizing European ground infrastructure and a yet-to-be-selected satellite partner.
Why it matters
It represents a strategic move by European telecom giants to maintain sovereignty over critical communications infrastructure and reduce reliance on US-based satellite providers.
Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone signed a letter of intent saying they’re considering a joint bid for spectrum that would support European direct-to-device satellite competition for SpaceX’s Starlink. The four telecom companies say they would handle the ground infrastructure while a separate, unannounced satellite partner provides the satellite constellation:
> The joint initiative by Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone has a clear ambition: to meet customer demand for universal coverage in underserved areas, strengthen the resilience of public networks, protect critical communications, and support the development of a European constellation.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in