Orange Confident on Satellite Connectivity as Growth Opportunity, Not Threat
Orange has reinforced its support for satellite connectivity, positioning non-terrestrial networks as an opportunity to extend coverage, improve resilience and generate additional revenue rather than compete with its existing terrestrial mobile infrastructure.
According to Reuters, while speaking during the company’s third-quarter earnings call, CEO Christel Heydemann said satellite connectivity was fully complementary to Orange’s networks, providing greater geographic reach and strengthening the operator’s overall service proposition.
The comments follow confirmation last week that Orange, Deutsche Telekom, Telefónica and Vodafone are exploring a joint bid for European mobile satellite spectrum. The four operators are considering a coordinated approach to future spectrum allocations, with the aim of supporting satellite-to-mobile services while improving public network resilience and protecting critical communications.
The potential consortium reflects growing interest among European mobile operators in taking a more proactive role in the development of direct-to-device connectivity. Rather than relying entirely on third-party satellite providers, a joint spectrum strategy could give operators greater influence over how satellite services are integrated into their networks and delivered to customers.
Orange has already been expanding its satellite activities. The company launched satellite messaging in France through Skylo in 2025 and has tested satellite SMS in Romania, while also working with AST SpaceMobile on potential voice and data services. These initiatives form part of a wider strategy to use satellite connectivity to reach areas beyond terrestrial mobile coverage.
The operator has also been vocal about the importance of European satellite sovereignty, arguing that Europe needs its own competitive capabilities alongside international partnerships. Access to mobile satellite spectrum and the development of initiatives such as IRIS² are becoming central to that discussion.