MNO Alliance Targets 2 GHz MSS Spectrum for European D2D Initiative
Four of Europe's largest mobile network operators—Deutsche Telekom, Telefónica, Orange, and Vodafone—have signed a letter of intent to bid for MSS spectrum to establish a regional Direct-to-Device network.
Strategic Realignment
Four of Europe’s telecommunications giants—Deutsche Telekom, Telefónica, Orange, and Vodafone—have formalized a partnership to secure future mobile satellite service (MSS) spectrum. According to Payload, the move focuses on the 2 GHz band, a frequency range optimal for Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity.
The Spectrum Framework
The joint bid follows a proposal by the European Commission to restructure 2 GHz licensing into three distinct allocations. One-third is reserved for sovereign government and military use (restricted to EU operators); one-third is dedicated to commercial EU applications like D2D and IoT; the final third remains open to international competition. This regulatory firewall provides a tactical opening for the MNO alliance to secure domestic control over high-priority orbital bandwidth.
Infrastructure and Sovereignty
The alliance plans to deploy the necessary ground segment infrastructure across the continent while seeking a yet-to-be-named satellite partner. While Deutsche Telekom and Telefónica have previously utilized SpaceX’s Starlink, this new initiative signals an attempt to reduce reliance on non-European providers. However, industry analysts at the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI) note that while the venture is European in nature, it does not yet guarantee the development of a fully indigenous satellite constellation.
Market Viability
The project faces skepticism regarding market size, given that terrestrial networks already cover over 98% of Europe. Nevertheless, the alliance views D2D as a critical redundancy layer for underserved zones and public safety. By consolidating their bid, these operators aim to streamline regional access and mitigate the market fragmentation that has historically slowed European satellite-mobile integration.