Telefónica sees satellite connectivity complementing, not replacing, terrestrial networks
TEF•Telefónica says satellite connectivity can complement terrestrial networks but not replace their capacity or indoor coverage. It is exploring a potential bid for European Mobile Satellite Services spectrum with Deutsche Telekom, Orange and Vodafone.
1. Satellite role
Telefónica’s industry analysis says satellite connectivity can complement terrestrial networks but cannot replace their capacity or indoor coverage. It says telecom operators are critical to integrating satellite services.
2. European spectrum
A joint initiative with Deutsche Telekom, Orange and Vodafone is exploring a potential bid for European Mobile Satellite Services spectrum. Telefónica says proposed rules should let applicants without satellite infrastructure qualify through binding capacity agreements, provided they retain sufficient control over service delivery.
3. Investment needs
The analysis says European sovereignty depends on control over service delivery, not satellite ownership alone, and calls for sustained private investment and public funding to scale connectivity capabilities across the value chain.
