Call for Input: Future use of the 2 GHz MSS band

The “2 GHz MSS band” (1980-2010 MHz and 2170-2200 MHz) is harmonised across the European Union (the EU) and the UK for Mobile Satellite Services (MSS). It is currently licensed to Viasat and Echostar on an exclusive basis; these licences will expire in May 2027.

This document seeks inputs to inform our future proposals for the use of these frequencies after the current licence periods expire. We will consult on our future proposals in 2026.  

What we are seeking input about – in brief  

We are seeking input on the types and mix of services that could be authorised in these frequencies in the future in the UK. As part of this we are seeking input on issues relevant to our duties, such as:

1. efficient use of the spectrum, including conditions for coexistence;
2. commercial viability of services;
3. competition in each sector; and
4. innovation and growth.

In addition, we wish to understand how much spectrum is required to provide a good service for each potential use case of 2 GHz MSS, noting that larger spectrum allocations could constrain our ability to authorise multiple users.

We are also seeking views on the appropriate duration of future authorisations, given the market is still developing for some of the services that could be delivered using this band.

Finally, we would be interested in views about the potential interdependence between the UK and EU in relation to the use of the band and how this interdependence may vary for different use cases.