Vodafone. Photo: Rama Knight Photographer, via Vodafone Flickr

Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile plan to offer satellite direct-to-device services to mobile network operators in Europe starting in 2026 under a new joint venture between the companies called SatCo.

The partners announced plans for SatCo in March, but released more details on Monday, that the joint venture will be established in Luxembourg. SatCo will exclusively distribute AST SpaceMobile’s broadband satellite services to European mobile network operators. The companies report interest from network operators in 21 EU member states and other European markets. 

The companies said it will be a “sovereign integrated satellite service” for Europe. In addition, SatCo will deploy a small network of earth stations that integrate with 4G/5G terrestrial networks to provide secure backhaul links and coverage from AST SpaceMobile’s satellite constellation. 

“This is an important initiative for Europe. Our service will ensure that European citizens, businesses, and governments enjoy uninterrupted, ubiquitous mobile broadband connectivity across the whole continent. Europe can take the lead in new direct-to-mobile broadband technology,” Vodafone CEO Margherita Della Valle said in a release. 

Vodafone, which provides telecommunication services in Europe and Africa, has long been an investor and partner in AST SpaceMobile. The company has a commercial agreement in place with AST SpaceMobile that lasts through 2034 to distribute AST SpaceMobile services in its home markets and in partner markets.