Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite connectivity is moving rapidly from technical concept to strategic
reality. What began as a discussion about spectrum feasibility and licensing models has evolved into
a broader policy debate touching on digital sovereignty, industrial competitiveness, and the future
architecture of Europe’s converged terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. Twelve months on from
the RSPG Opinion on D2D and related Single Market issues, CEPT is advancing technical work,
Member States are assessing national authorisation approaches, and questions remain around how
existing EU legislation accommodates this emerging model. As deployments accelerate globally and
WRC-27 approaches, Europe faces a pivotal moment to clarify its regulatory direction, define the
appropriate level of coordination, and determine how D2D fits within its broader connectivity and
strategic ambitions. This session will take stock of progress since the RSPG Opinion, examine
whether the current framework is fit for purpose, and explore the policy choices that may be required
to ensure that D2D develops in a way that supports innovation, competition and the integrity of the
Single Market.

– What long-term strategic role should D2D play in Europe’s connectivity, competitiveness and
digital sovereignty agenda?
– To what extent is D2D currently handled within the Digital Networks Act and broader EU
connectivity legislation? How can it be ensured that the regulatory framework is in place to
provide long-term legal certainty and policy coherence?
– What approaches are emerging across Member States regarding national authorisation and
market access models for D2D? How can regulators and policymakers accommodate national
specificities and requirements while maintaining sufficient coordination to support
cross-border services and preserve the integrity of the Single Market as D2D scales?
– What common safeguards, if any, should be developed at EU level to balance open market
access with fair competition and spectrum protection?
– As demand for MSS spectrum grows, how should Europe approach licensing and assignment
models? Should mechanisms such as coordinated EU frameworks or even auctions be
considered to ensure fair access, competition and efficient spectrum use?
– How does D2D align with Europe’s strategic autonomy ambitions and the objectives of IRIS2?
Should sovereign capability play a defining role in policy choices?
– What concrete policy decisions must be taken in the next two years to ensure Europe remains
competitive and influential in shaping the global D2D ecosystem?
– Can Europe move toward a harmonised approach rather than fragmented national solutions?
Where should the balance lie between coordination at the European level and allowing
Member States the flexibility to make decisions based on their specific national circumstances
and needs?
– With direct-to-device (D2D) currently a major focus, is there a risk that its connectivity
requirements are prioritised at the expense of other critical services? How can this be
mitigated?