Starlink and Amazon May Access EU Mobile Satellite Spectrum Amid Sovereignty Push

The European Commission is developing a plan to allocate mobile satellite spectrum that prioritizes European technological sovereignty while allowing limited entry for major U.S. Satellite providers. According to reporting from Reuters, the proposal seeks to balance the region’s reliance on foreign infrastructure with the need for seamless connectivity for mobile devices and vehicles in remote locations.

Under the proposed framework, two-thirds of the satellite spectrum will be reserved specifically for European companies. This strategic reservation is part of a broader effort by the European Union to reduce its dependence on United States-based technology for critical communication infrastructure.

Despite the preference for regional providers, the plan may allow Elon Musk’s Starlink and Amazon’s low-earth-orbit satellite business to acquire a portion of the European mobile satellite spectrum in 2027.

The timing of this reallocation coincides with the expiration of existing licenses held by U.S. Companies Viasat and EchoStar, which are set to expire in May 2027. The European Commission has been evaluating how to distribute this future spectrum to ensure the bloc maintains independent control over its connectivity capabilities.

A central component of the EU’s strategy is IRIS2, a multi-orbit array consisting of 290 satellites. Designed as a direct response to the capabilities of Starlink, IRIS2 will be among the European entities designated to receive spectrum under the new proposal.

The bidding process for these licenses will not be limited strictly to EU member states; companies from Norway and the United Kingdom will also be permitted to bid for licenses.

European Commission spokesman Thomas Regnier emphasized that the move is tied to the current geopolitical climate, stating that EU-wide satellite connectivity is synonymous with resilience, security, and capability.

Satellite connectivity is a key piece of our technological sovereignty, our security, and our defense, as also highlighted by IRIS2

Thomas Regnier, European Commission spokesman

The details of the proposal were scheduled for announcement on May 28, 2026. However, sources indicated that the specifics could still be subject to change following a meeting of commissioners on that date.