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European Union Plans to Reserve Most 2 GHz Satellite Band for European Operators

European Union Plans to Reserve Most 2 GHz Satellite Band for European Operators

The latest report indicates Starlink and Amazon will be allowed to compete for EU mobile satellite spectrum from 2027, suggesting Brussels is balancing technological sovereignty goals with some openness to foreign operators.

Fact Check
Reuters confirms the European Commission's May 27, 2026 announcement that Starlink and Amazon are eligible to bid for EU 2 GHz mobile satellite spectrum. Crypto Briefing and TNW corroborate the two-thirds reserved for European operators / one-third open to non-EU bidders structure, and the UK gov.uk document confirms the relevant licenses expire May 2027 — matching the claim's timing and framing of balancing sovereignty with foreign-operator openness.
Summary

The latest report adds that Starlink and Amazon have been cleared to bid for European Union mobile satellite spectrum starting in 2027, refining earlier expectations that foreign groups would face tighter limits in the 2 GHz band. This suggests the EU is pursuing a spectrum allocation strategy that balances support for regional operators with continued competition from non-European satellite providers. The broader debate remains tied to Brussels’ effort to strengthen technological sovereignty and critical communications infrastructure while managing investment and market dynamics in satellite services.

Terms & Concepts
  • Mobile satellite spectrum: Radio frequencies allocated for satellite-based mobile communications, enabling connectivity for devices and vehicles beyond terrestrial network coverage.