Mexico announces new satellite project and industrial 5G spectrum auction

Mexico is advancing its digital and space infrastructure through two major initiatives. The government has announced plans to launch a new telecommunications satellite by the first quarter of 2030. This satellite is intended to replace the Bicentenario, which is nearing the end of its operational life. The new system aims to increase data capacity from approximately 6 gigabits per second to over 250 gigabits per second, a fortyfold increase that will support voice, data, video, and high-bandwidth content. This project is part of the National Connectivity Plan 2026-2030 and is expected to provide internet and telephony to approximately 820,000 people in remote areas.

Simultaneously, the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission has opened a tender for 60 MHz of radio spectrum in the 2.3 GHz band. Unlike traditional mobile telephony auctions, this spectrum is specifically designated for private industrial networks. The goal is to support Industry 4.0 applications, including robotics, autonomous vehicles, and real-time analytics, by providing high capacity and low latency. The spectrum will be divided into three 20 MHz blocks across 72 industrial regions.