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Satellite Connect Europe has launched as a Luxembourg-headquartered provider of direct-to-device satellite broadband access for mobile network operators across Europe, using AST SpaceMobiles low Earth orbit constellations.
It positions itself as a European-operated access layer to AST SpaceMobiles satellite network, with network operations, data handling and service control kept within European jurisdiction.
Satellite Connect Europe emerged in 2025 as a joint venture between Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile. The launch marks the next phase of the venture, with a named leadership team and an investment programme in European ground infrastructure.
Leadership team
John Slamecka has joined as incoming Chairman of the Board. An Italian citizen, he most recently served as President of AT&T Business International.
Meredith Sharples has been appointed Managing Director. A British citizen, he returns to Europe from Digicel, where he was Regional CEO across the Caribbean. He has also held senior roles at telecom operators in Europe.
Darren Ennis has joined as a Board Director. An Irish citizen based in Brussels, he is Group Director of EU Affairs at Vodafone Group, focusing on engagement with European institutions.
The Luxembourg-based leadership group also includes Florian Wopfner as Head of Finance, following roles as Group CFO and Managing Director at Docler Holding. Beki Muinde has joined as General Counsel and Head of External Affairs from Helios Towers. Daniel Thomas has joined as Head of Sales and Commercial from Vodafone Group.
Ground stations
The company is rolling out five ground stations in European markets. Construction is underway in Spain and the UK, with three more sites still being finalised.
The ground network is intended to support full European coverage and is designed for direct-to-device services that integrate with existing mobile networks.
The service targets mobile network operators looking to extend coverage beyond the reach of terrestrial networks. Satellite Connect Europe says the model supports existing consumer devices without upgrades.
Operator model
Satellite Connect Europe is working with European mobile network operators on satellite-enabled mobile connectivity plans to complement land-based coverage. It describes its approach as MNO-first , with operators retaining a central role in service delivery.
"With our unique MNO-first approach, we are fully aligned with the ambitions of Europe's service providers and regulators. We are positioned to complement existing terrestrial networks, enabling MNOs to deliver ubiquitous connectivity to their customers for the first time," said Meredith Sharples, Managing Director, Satellite Connect Europe.
The group also emphasised regulatory engagement and spectrum policy, citing the use of IMT and MSS spectrum. It said the service will develop in step with European policymaking and industry coordination.
"Satellite Connect Europe is committed to working hand-in-hand with regulators, policymakers and industry to ensure IMT and MSS spectrum is used to its fullest potential. Together, we can unlock transformative new services that expand consumer choice, strengthen competition and build more resilient mobile networks across Europe," said Ennis.
Slamecka said the venture will pursue commercial value from spectrum resources through an operator-led model. "Powered by a unique proposition, unique technology and unique ownership, we are here to create unparalleled value from IMT and MSS spectrum by delivering universal, operator-led mobile connectivity," said John Slamecka, incoming Chairman of the Board, Satellite Connect Europe.
Technology Claims
Satellite Connect Europe says it has exclusive European access to AST SpaceMobiles low Earth orbit constellations. It describes AST SpaceMobile as the only satellite technology currently able to offer mobile broadband service directly to multiple 4G or 5G smartphones without specialised software, device support or updates. It says the service will operate as an extension of land-based networks.
Direct-to-device connectivity has drawn growing interest from mobile operators, satellite companies and regulators as a way to expand coverage and maintain service during outages. The approach also raises questions about spectrum coordination, lawful access regimes, and how operators manage service assurance and customer support when connectivity originates from space-based infrastructure.
Industry analyst Ben Wood, Chief Analyst at CCS Insight, said consumers would see a material change in coverage as services enter the market. "Consumers across Europe will get a significant uplift in coverage experience through direct-to-device satellite connectivity. it will be one of the biggest leaps forward for coverage in decades. In a fast-moving market, it's encouraging to see a direct-to-device satellite network delivering a solution for European operators," said Wood.
Satellite Connect Europe says it will continue discussions with European mobile network operators as it finalises the remaining ground station sites and advances deployment across the region.