Satellite Connect Europe seals five MNO trial deals
Satellite Connect Europe has confirmed deals with five major mobile network operator groups to advance direct-to-device satellite mobile broadband services across Europe. The agreements cover CK Hutchison, Orange, Sunrise, Telefonica and Vodafone, with customer trials scheduled to start in summer 2026.
The announcements were made at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. Satellite Connect Europe said the deals reflect a growing pipeline with Europes largest mobile network operators as they explore ways to extend coverage beyond areas served by terrestrial networks.
Operator commitments
Vodafone will work with Satellite Connect Europe in the UK, Ireland and Romania, with UK customer trials due to begin in summer 2026.
Orange is making what Satellite Connect Europe described as a global commitment with AST SpaceMobile, with European testing expected to start in Romania.
CK Hutchison plans deployments in five markets: Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Italy and Sweden. Testing is set to begin in Austria and Italy in summer 2026.
Satellite Connect Europe did not specify the scope of the planned trials in each market or the number of customers expected to participate. It also did not provide commercial launch timelines.
Shared platform
Headquartered in Luxembourg, Satellite Connect Europe was introduced in 2025 as a joint venture between Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile.
The venture is positioning itself as a European-operated route into AST SpaceMobile satellite network connectivity. Satellite Connect Europe said this structure keeps network operations, data handling and service control within European jurisdiction.
The company plans to invest in five Europe-based ground stations and said it has made significant progress in its engagement with European mobile network operators.
Direct-to-device service
The initiative centres on direct-to-device satellite services that integrate with existing mobile networks. Satellite Connect Europe said the approach supports existing consumer devices and does not require upgrades.
Satellite Connect Europe said it has exclusive European access to AST SpaceMobiles low Earth orbit constellations. It said the technology aims to provide mobile broadband directly to multiple 4G or 5G smartphones without specialised software, device support or updates.
Direct-to-device satellite connectivity has become a focal point for mobile operators and satellite companies as they assess how to provide coverage in rural and remote areas and improve resilience during outages. The approach differs from traditional satellite services, which often require dedicated terminals or specialised devices.
Satellite Connect Europe described its work as complementary to existing terrestrial networks, focusing on operator-led service delivery and integration with mobile network operations.
Mobile network operators are gathering behind Satellite Connect Europe. Our MNO-first approach means we are fully aligned with the ambitions of Europes service providers and regulators, said Meredith Sharples, managing director at Satellite Connect Europe.
Sharples also highlighted the planned relationship between satellite coverage and terrestrial networks.
We are positioned to complement existing terrestrial networks, enabling MNOs to deliver ubiquitous connectivity to their customers for the first time. Its a unique proposition and unique technology, and we will work with MNOs to create unparalleled value from IMT and MSS spectrum by delivering universal, operator-led mobile connectivity, Sharples said.
Satellite Connect Europe said its model gives European operators access to satellite connectivity while retaining control of the service experience and customer relationships. It added that customer data remains under operator control.
Customer trials are scheduled to begin in summer 2026 in the initial markets identified by Vodafone, Orange and CK Hutchison, with further activity expected as other operator groups prepare testing programmes.