Major European mobile carriers are teaming up for a ‘direct’ satellite program without Starlink

Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone are considering a joint bid for spectrum to support direct-to-device satellite services in Europe. The plan aims to expand coverage in underserved areas and make public networks more resilient, creating a potential European-led competitor to Starlink.

The four carriers say they would build and operate ground infrastructure, coordination and monitoring functions, while a satellite partner, which has not yet been chosen, would provide the constellation. The announcement follows a similar collaboration among major US mobile operators. In May, the EU considered reserving part of the 2 GHz band for local satellite services; SpaceX argued the proposal could worsen service in Ukraine.