4 European Telecoms Explore Joint Bid for Satellite Spectrum

Four major European telecom companies—Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone—have signed a non-binding letter of intent to explore submitting a joint bid for mobile satellite spectrum in Europe.

The companies clarified that the letter does not imply a direct investment in building a dedicated satellite constellation, nor does it replace their existing partnerships with satellite operators.

AST SpaceMobile provides the ground infrastructure through its joint venture "Satellite Connect Europe," linking the European initiative to the existing direct-to-cell ecosystem.

The move comes as Europe seeks to strengthen its sovereignty in space communications, with operators aiming to secure a stake in future spectrum before licensing and allocation rules are finalized.

What do these terms mean?

Letter of Intent: A legally non-binding document outlining parties' desire to cooperate, typically preceding a formal agreement or joint venture.

Frequency Spectrum: Organized radio waves allocated by governments for communications, broadcasting, and satellite services, with licenses usually issued via auctions or tenders.

Mobile Satellite Communications: A service connecting phones or devices directly to satellites to provide coverage outside terrestrial network range.

Joint Venture: An entity owned by two or more companies to execute a specific activity, with partners sharing its costs and profits.