• WRC-27 will consider new spectrum allocations for satellite links directly to ordinary mobile devices
  • National regulators are already developing their own rules for D2D services using mobile spectrum

The fact

Direct-to-device satellite services are moving into spectrum traditionally associated with terrestrial mobile networks, creating a new regulatory question for the International Telecommunication Union and national authorities.

WRC-27 agenda item 1.13 is considering possible new mobile-satellite service allocations for direct connectivity between space stations and International Mobile Telecommunications user equipment. The studies cover bands between 694/698MHz and 2.7GHz and are intended to complement terrestrial mobile coverage. 1

Countries are already moving ahead under national rules. The US has established its Supplemental Coverage from Space framework, allowing satellite services to use spectrum held by a partnering mobile operator under defined conditions. Ofcom introduced UK rules for D2D services in mobile bands in July 2026. 2 3

The assessment

D2D changes spectrum planning because frequencies used by terrestrial mobile networks can now also form part of a satellite service. That means regulators must decide how the two systems coexist, including transmission limits, interference protection and the conditions under which a satellite operator can use spectrum licensed to a mobile carrier.

The problem becomes harder across borders. Satellite coverage does not stop neatly at a national boundary, while the same frequency can be licensed differently in neighbouring countries. A service that works under one regulator's rules therefore cannot assume identical rights across the rest of a constellation's footprint.

For BTW readers, D2D turns spectrum coordination into part of network design. A satellite partnership can scale across markets only if operators can secure compatible authorisations without undermining the terrestrial networks already using those frequencies.

What to watch

Watch the technical studies and preparatory text for WRC-27 agenda item 1.13, alongside new national D2D authorisations and their interference conditions. Differences between US, UK and other regulatory frameworks will show how much harmonisation remains. Documented interference or cross-border coordination problems would provide the clearest evidence of where existing rules need changing.