Satellite Connect Europe to partner with VodafoneThree for customer trials of satellite mobile broadband in the UK
Ambition to bring direct-to-device satellite connectivity capable of data, voice, and SMS to the UK, with VodafoneThree’s customer trials set to start in the summer
March 2 2026 – Satellite Connect Europe has today announced it has signed with VodafoneThree, with a joint ambition to remove mobile coverage not-spots for customers across the UK.
The commercial agreement with Satellite Connect Europe, the Luxembourg headquartered provider of open access direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity, is a significant step in introducing strong and reliable satellite coverage to consumers, businesses and public services in remote and hard-to-reach areas across the UK.
By integrating satellite capability directly into existing 4G and 5G networks, Satellite Connect Europe will complement VodafoneThree’s terrestrial network, enabling customers using standard smartphones to access direct-to-device satellite connectivity capable of data, voice, and SMS in areas with no mobile coverage today.
The initiative will also support the development of satellite services in Europe that operate in alignment with European regulatory frameworks and spectrum usage requirements. Satellite Connect Europe will work alongside European mobile network operators, EU institutions and Member States to help develop a harmonised European framework for satellite D2D broadband services, including a simplified authorisation process.
Satellite Connect Europe Managing Director, Meredith Sharples, said:
“VodafoneThree is making a huge step forward with this partnership, and we look forward to seeing the impact of their live customer trials this summer. This marks a major milestone in the momentum behind a European direct-to-device satellite service.”
Andrea Donà, Chief Network Officer, VodafoneThree, said:
“This partnership with Satellite Connect Europe supports our ambition to deliver direct-to-device satellite connectivity capable of data, voice, and SMS to our customers, leading to the elimination of coverage gaps in hard-to-reach and remote areas, as well as helping to close the digital divide. At VodafoneThree, we are absolutely committed to connecting our customers in every nation, every community, and in every corner of the UK.”
ENDS
For more information, contact:
Howard Jones
+44 7500 849 738
About Satellite Connect Europe
Luxembourg headquartered Satellite Connect Europe is a joint venture between Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile, created to deliver seamless, secure and resilient direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity for European Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). The company helps operators extend service reach while maintaining control of service experience, customer relationships, and all customer data. European-built and operated, Satellite Connect Europe supports Governments, operators and enterprises in strengthening Europe’s critical communications infrastructure.
www.satelliteconnecteurope.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/satellite-connect-europe/