The European Union announced Tuesday that it will prioritize European satellite services in the allocation of mobile satellite spectrum [1].
This move is intended to curb the expansion of Elon Musk's Starlink network and reduce the region's dependence on U.S. providers. By favoring homegrown operators, the EU seeks to protect its domestic satellite industry and ensure strategic autonomy in critical communications infrastructure.
According to reports, the EU plans to earmark two-thirds of the mobile satellite spectrum for European companies [2]. This allocation strategy targets a key wireless frequency band, effectively limiting the amount of spectrum available to foreign entities. The policy aims to prevent a scenario where a single American company dominates the orbital infrastructure over Europe.
However, the extent of the restriction remains a point of discussion. While some reports suggest Europe is preparing to shut American companies out of the majority of the band, other data indicates that Starlink and Amazon may still be able to acquire some European mobile satellite spectrum next year [2].
European operators, such as SES, are already navigating this shifting landscape. SES is reportedly in talks with the EU regarding a long-term option to complement the services provided by Starlink, suggesting a hybrid approach where local services coexist with U.S. networks despite the restrictive spectrum policies.
These spectrum allocations are expected to be finalized and implemented in 2027 [2]. The decision reflects a broader trend of the EU asserting digital sovereignty over its airspace and telecommunications to avoid reliance on private foreign corporations.
“The EU plans to earmark two-thirds of the mobile satellite spectrum for European companies.”
The EU's decision to weaponize spectrum allocation signals a shift from open-market competition to a protectionist stance regarding space infrastructure. By securing a majority of the available frequencies for local firms, the EU is treating satellite connectivity as a strategic utility rather than a commercial service, aiming to mitigate the geopolitical risk of relying on a U.S.-based company for essential communication.
