A rendering of Lynk’s satellite-to-cell concept. Photo: Lynk Global

The FCC granted Lynk Global approval to provide satellite direct-to-device services in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. 

Lynk is working with mobile network operator (MNO) partner Docomo Pacific, subsidiary of Japanese mobile network operator NTT Docomo, which operates in the Mariana Islands in the Pacific Ocean. 

The license modification the FCC granted on April 29 allows Lynk to provide supplemental coverage from space (SCS) with partner Docomo within the U.S. territories, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. Lynk is authorized to operate in the 845.1-845.3 MHz band for Earth-to-space, and the 890.1 to 890.3 MHz  band for space-to-Earth. 

Supplemental coverage from space is the FCC’s term for when satellites communicate directly with unmodified cell phones using MNO spectrum to “supplement” the reach of the MNO’s network.

The FCC adopted a new regulatory framework for SCS last year. SpaceX was the first satellite operator to receive SCS approval, for service with T-Mobile. 

“This is incredibly exciting for Lynk to be the second direct-to-device provider licensed for commercial service in the U.S.,” commented Amy Mehlman, executive vice president and chief global affairs officer of Lynk

“We are taking great strides on our mission to connect everyone, everywhere, and this approval demonstrates our progress on our strategic roadmap, enabling Lynk and our trusted partner, Docomo, to provide services in parts of the country that are underserved or out of reach from conventional mobile networks,” Mehlman said. 

Lynk recently received an investment from satellite operator SES, in a partnership where SES will collaborate on Lynk’s network architecture and serve as a channel partner for Lynk’s service.