Authorisation of Mobile Satellite Services

Practical information

• Composition of the Study Group
• Alin MITUȚA (administrator), Baiba SPUNDE (assistant)
• TEN Section meeting: 4 September 2026
• EESC Plenary session: 23-24 September 2026
• Contact

Background

The authorisation regime for the 2 GHz mobile satellite services (MSS) band is approaching a turning point, as the rights granted under Decision No 626/2008/EC expire in May 2027. Since 2008 the band has gained strategic importance, with LEO and multi-orbit constellations now enabling Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity to ordinary devices, and satellite communications becoming central to EU resilience, security and digital sovereignty. The current model, based on Union-level selection but national authorisation, has produced fragmented conditions, divergent fees and licensing delays.

The aim of this initiative is to make the use of the 2 GHz MSS band simpler, more harmonised and more strategically secure through:

• a single Union-level selection and authorisation procedure run by the Commission, replacing national regimes,
• dedicated spectrum for a secure MSS/hybrid system reserved for EU-owned or controlled operators, integrated with IRIS,
• prioritised access for a Union new entrant, alongside a track open to applicants from third countries,
• common authorisation conditions, a 20-year duration renewable once, one-off contributions and annual fees, and coordinated EU-level monitoring and enforcement.

The initiative takes the form of a single Regulation repealing Decision No 626/2008/EC, with a transitional two-year, non-transferable extension for the incumbents to ensure service continuity.