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- Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefonica and Vodafone sign letter of intent to assess joint spectrum bid aimed at expanding satellite connectivity across Europe
By Mucahithan Avcioglu
ISTANBUL (AA) - Four major European telecommunications companies said Monday they were exploring a joint bid for mobile satellite spectrum to expand connectivity across Europe.
Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefonica and Vodafone signed a letter of intent to assess a potential joint bid for the future allocation of mobile satellite services spectrum in Europe, the companies said.
The initiative could provide a European alternative to satellite connectivity services offered by competitors such as Elon Musk's Starlink.
The companies said the project aimed to expand direct-to-device connectivity by integrating satellite services with existing mobile networks and extending coverage to underserved areas.
Under the proposed model, all mobile network operators would receive open and non-discriminatory access, an approach intended to encourage competition and broaden consumer choice.
The four operators would establish ground network infrastructure and critical coordination and monitoring functions in Europe without investing directly in a satellite constellation.
A satellite partner, which has yet to be selected, would provide the constellation, according to the companies.
They said combining their customer reach, network capabilities and technical expertise could accelerate deployment and improve spectrum efficiency.
The initiative also aims to strengthen public network resilience, protect critical communications and support the development of a European satellite constellation.
The companies said the project aligned with the European Commission's ambition to strengthen Europe's sovereignty, security and resilience in critical connectivity infrastructure.
Although the announcement did not explicitly name Starlink, the proposed initiative emphasizes European governance and space infrastructure.
The companies added that the letter of intent would not replace their existing satellite partnerships.
Mücahithan Avcıoğlu
