The European Union proposed major changes to mobile satellite spectrum licensing on Wednesday, aiming to reserve most of the 2 gigahertz MSS frequency band for homegrown operators starting next year. This move represents the bloc's latest effort to reduce dependence on foreign technology companies and strengthen domestic satellite capabilities.

Current licenses held by Viasat and EchoStar are set to expire in May 2027, creating the opportunity for this policy shift. The EU plans to allocate two-thirds of the sought-after spectrum for commercial applications including cellular devices, fundamentally reshaping how the valuable frequency band will be distributed in the future.

Non-EU players like Starlink will still be permitted to bid for access, but commercial use rights will be split equally between European newcomers and existing companies from both Europe and elsewhere. This approach attempts to balance market competition with strategic autonomy, ensuring the EU maintains diversified satellite suppliers while still allowing international participation in the lucrative market.