EU clears Starlink and Amazon to bid for mobile satellite spectrum, prioritizes European operators

The European Commission approved a new framework for the 2 GHz mobile satellite spectrum, reserving two‑thirds of the band for European operators and opening the remaining one‑third to non‑EU entrants. SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon’s rebranded Leo (formerly Project Kuiper) are now eligible to bid in the auction slated for 2027, alongside UK and Norwegian firms. Existing U.S. operators Viasat and EchoStar received a two‑year licence extension until May 2029.

The move is aimed at bolstering the EU’s technological sovereignty. Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier said satellite connectivity is “a key piece of our technological sovereignty, our security, and our defence.” The allocation will support direct‑to‑device services that let smartphones connect directly to satellites, improving rural coverage and emergency communications. The EU’s own IRIS² constellation will benefit from the reserved spectrum, positioning it as a home‑grown alternative to Starlink.

U.S. officials have warned the EU against favouring European providers. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr cautioned that a “fair and even‑handed approach” is needed, highlighting the potential diplomatic tension over the decision.