The US Federal Communications Commission has voted to advance proposals that could make an additional 482 MHz of licensed spectrum available for satellite-to-device services, marking another step toward expanding the regulatory framework for NTN connectivity.
At its 29 October meeting, the FCC adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to modernise the Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) framework introduced in 2024. The proposals would expand the number of eligible spectrum bands from five to 13 and provide greater flexibility for satellite operators to deliver connectivity directly to conventional mobile devices.
The Commission is also seeking comment on relaxing existing SCS requirements, including geographic service-area restrictions and spectrum leasing arrangements. The changes could give satellite operators more options for accessing licensed frequencies without necessarily relying on the existing partnership structures used by many early D2D services.
However, the proposed expansion has already generated opposition from the largest US mobile operators. AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon, through industry association CTIA, have urged the FCC to exclude 290 MHz of mid-band spectrum across the 2.5GHz and 3.45GHz bands from the expanded SCS framework.
The operators argue that satellite transmissions in these bands could interfere with terrestrial 5G networks, particularly where time-division duplexing is used. They are calling for stronger interference protections and tighter power limits to prevent satellite operations from degrading existing mobile services.
The dispute highlights an increasingly important question for the NTN industry: how much access should satellite operators have to spectrum already used by terrestrial networks, and under what conditions?
The FCC also voted to advance a separate proposal to auction 25 MHz of spectrum in the 1675–1695MHz and 2020–2025MHz bands. The frequencies could be made available for terrestrial 5G and future 6G services, satellite D2D or hybrid network architectures, depending on the final licensing and technical framework.
The regulatory developments come amid rapidly growing investment in satellite-to-mobile connectivity. SpaceX is expanding Starlink Mobile through spectrum acquisitions and a planned 15,000-satellite constellation, while Amazon's acquisition of Globalstar and AST SpaceMobile's constellation plans are adding further competition to the sector.
The vote does not immediately authorise satellite operations across the additional 482 MHz or complete an auction of the separate 25 MHz. Both proceedings will now move through further consultation and regulatory consideration before final rules are established.