Major European mobile carriers are teaming up for a ‘direct’ satellite program without Starlink
The 30-second read
Four major European mobile carriers are pursuing a joint spectrum bid to launch a direct-to-device satellite service. This strategic initiative aims to establish a sovereign regional competitor to SpaceX's Starlink using shared ground infrastructure and an external satellite partner.
- 01Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefonica, and Vodafone signed a formal letter of intent for the project
- 02The partnership targets a European-led alternative to Starlink for direct-to-device satellite connectivity
- 03Carriers will manage ground infrastructure while an unannounced partner provides the satellite constellation
- 04The joint venture remains contingent on securing necessary spectrum through a competitive bidding process
Go deeper · Equip playbook
Business Travel Management 2026: Program Blueprint →AI-generated summary · Verify at source
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 […]