UK SPF November Plenary 2025 Event Round-up
The UK SPF was thrilled to host the fourth Plenary in 2025 last week, bringing together a vibrant cross-section of the UK’s spectrum and telecoms ecosystem. The UK Spectrum Policy Forum recently hosted an event to launch a groundbreaking report on the future of satellite-terrestrial network sharing. The study, commissioned by the Forum and presented by Real Wireless, focused on the growing role of direct-to-device (D2D) services. It explored use cases, partnership models, technology evolution, and spectrum requirements—key elements shaping the next generation of connectivity.
The research examined how satellite connectivity can complement terrestrial networks, particularly in scenarios where coverage gaps persist. The study aimed to assess the viability of business cases for satellite D2D services, considering factors such as service expectations, device and chip integration, and regulatory flexibility. It also highlighted the technological journey from proprietary solutions to standards-based approaches, driven by 3GPP releases and the integration of satellite connectivity into mass-market devices. This evolution, alongside the transition from 4G to 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) standards, is paving the way for seamless connectivity across diverse environments.
Key Findings: Use Cases, Technology, and Spectrum Challenges
The report identified several compelling use cases for satellite D2D services. These include extending coverage beyond terrestrial networks, enabling emergency communications, ensuring network resilience during outages, and supporting IoT applications such as messaging and low-data-rate services. These scenarios underline the importance of NTN in delivering reliable connectivity where traditional networks fall short.
However, the path to widespread adoption is not without challenges. Spectrum availability emerged as a critical issue, with discussions centering on the complexities of sharing bands between mobile satellite services (MSS) and international mobile telecommunications (IMT). Network design factors—such as cell size, antenna configuration, and densification—affect spectral efficiency and capacity. The report stressed that spectrum sharing and harmonisation will be essential for sustainable deployment, alongside regulatory flexibility to accommodate diverse use cases and partnership models.
The study concluded that the commercial viability of D2D services depends on geography, collaboration between mobile and satellite operators, and the ability to balance incumbent protection with innovation. Real-world experimentation and coexistence studies were highlighted as vital steps toward informed policy-making.
Industry Perspectives and Next Steps
Following the presentation, a panel discussion explored the current NTN landscape, company roles, and perspectives on commercial success. Participants shared insights into their organisations’ roles in the NTN ecosystem—from providing GEO-based D2D services to partnerships for terrestrial-satellite integration and contributions to standardisation. The conversation underscored the importance of supporting a diverse range of use cases, including emergency SOS, IoT, and coverage extension, with requirements varying across markets.
Standardisation and commercial readiness were recurring themes. The discussion emphasised the need for focused feature development within 3GPP to accelerate device integration and achieve economies of scale. Regulatory engagement also featured prominently, with calls for cooperation between industry and regulators to protect IMT services while enabling NTN growth. Participants agreed that international harmonisation and flexible regulatory frameworks will be key to unlocking the full potential of satellite-terrestrial integration.
The event concluded with updates on upcoming workshops and research priorities, including spectrum demand, AI in spectrum management, and public protection. Members were encouraged to propose research projects, participate in experiments, and engage in future events to shape the evolving spectrum landscape.
Contact Us
Tales Gaspar
Tales has a background in law and economics, with previous experience in the regulation of new technologies and infrastructure.
Sophie Greaves
Sophie Greaves is Associate Director for Digital Infrastructure at techUK, overseeing the Communications Infrastructure and Services Programme at techUK, and the UK Spectrum Policy Forum.