European Telecoms: Satellite: a credible rural challenger, not yet a systematic threat

Research evidence excerpt

European Telecoms: Satellite: a credible rural challenger, not yet a systematic threat

Measuring satellite risk in Europe

LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellite services are proliferating across Europe, offering home

broadband services and direct to device (D2D) connectivity that is typically provided as a

‘bolt-on’ to an existing mobile contract, providing basic data and messaging services. So

far, multiple telecom operators have signed deals with the satellite operators to

facilitate the latter:

Exhibit 1: European Telco / satellite partnerships to provide D2D connectivity

Telcos are, so far, embracing the new technology

Telecom operator Satellite partner Summary services

Vodafone AST SpaceMobile / Satellite Connect Europe European direct-to-device (D2D) satellite service business to serve mobile network operators; turnkey access to

AST SpaceMobile services and European ground/backhaul infrastructure.

Deutsche Telekom Starlink Satellite-to-mobile D2D connectivity planned across several European Telekom markets to close mobile coverage

gaps in hard-to-reach areas; launch planned for 2028.

Orange AST SpaceMobile / Satellite Connect Europe D2D collaboration for relevant Orange markets; planned Romania demonstrations covering voice, SMS and data.

Telefónica Satellite Connect Europe Exploring D2D satellite connectivity across Europe, focused on integration with existing 4G/5G networks in Spain

and Germany.

Virgin Media O2 Starlink Direct to Cell O2 Satellite partnership for UK rural/not-spot mobile coverage, initially messaging and data services using O2

licensed mobile spectrum.

BT Group / EE Starlink Satellite home broadband for BT and EE consumer broadband customers in rural and remote UK areas where

fixed-line infrastructure is difficult or uneconomic.