EU Member States Debate Satellite Spectrum Management
The European Commission faces member state pushback on a proposal to centralize 2 GHz spectrum authorizations for satellite services.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Telecommunications
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The European Union is currently divided over a European Commission proposal to shift spectrum authorization from national authorities to an EU-level process. The proposed regulation aims to govern the allocation of 30 MHz of spectrum to facilitate direct satellite-to-mobile connectivity.
Why it matters
The transition seeks to address market fragmentation that currently hinders the single market while balancing security concerns regarding government communications. Disagreements among member states highlight the tension between centralized EU oversight and the preservation of national authority over radio spectrum management.
The proposal manages 30 MHz of spectrum within the 2 GHz band, dividing it into 10 MHz for government services and 20 MHz for commercial operations. This shift aims to standardize technical conditions for satellite-to-phone connectivity across the EU.
The players
European Commission
The executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation and managing the bloc's policies.
Viasat
A global communications company providing satellite services and internet connectivity.
EchoStar
A provider of satellite technology and communication solutions for both commercial and government sectors.
The details
The Commission plans to replace the long-standing national management system with a centralized framework featuring two separate procedures for commercial entities. Member states expressed varied positions on this shift during recent consultations, with France opposing the centralization and Cyprus supporting it.
Timeline
2008: National authorities began managing spectrum authorizations.
May 2026: The European Commission presented the new regulatory proposal.
October 23, 2026: Member states submitted their formal contributions.
May 2027: Current spectrum authorizations for Viasat and EchoStar are set to expire.
The Tech Race
This proposal marks a transition from the national authorization model established in 2008 to a centralized EU-level system. By standardizing the 2 GHz band, the move aims to accelerate the adoption of direct-to-mobile satellite capabilities against competing global standards.
A successful centralization of spectrum could lead to improved direct satellite-to-mobile connectivity for users across the region. However, delays in the authorization process could impact the availability of future satellite-enabled mobile services.
The takeaway
Centralizing spectrum management is intended to streamline the rollout of next-generation connectivity across borders. Harmonizing these rules is expected to be a complex process given the significant security and regulatory concerns raised by member states.
Further reading
For broader context on current industry standards, visit the Telecommunications section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Agence Europe.
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