# European telcos plan Starlink alternative

> European telecom giants aim to challenge Starlink with satellite service.
- Title: European telcos plan Starlink alternative · mint | Shortify
- Summary: European telecom giants aim to challenge Starlink with satellite service. European telecoms plan joint satellite service to reduce reliance on Starlink.
- Keywords: deutsche telekom, orange, telefónica, vodafone, starlink, elion musk, space x, ukraine, india, european union, satellite service, news
- Source: mint — https://livemint.com/companies/news/more-bad-news-for-starlink-after-india-ukraine-controversies-european-telcos-plan-to-launch-own-satellite-service-11792467505049.html
- Author: Swati Gandhi
- Published: 2026-10-20T04:03:27+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: deutsche telekom, orange, telefónica, vodafone, starlink, elion musk, space x, ukraine, india, european union, satellite service, news
## European telcos explore satellite service
Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone plan joint satellite mobile service to reduce dependence on non-European suppliers.
## Starlink faces Ukraine restrictions
Starlink speed restrictions hinder Ukraine’s drone defense using military satellite service.
## Ukraine president reports issues
Zelenskyy says Starshield speed limits prevent drone interception in Ukraine.
## Musk denies responsibility
Musk states Starshield is owned by US government, not SpaceX.

> Starshield systems are owned and controlled by the US government. Any limits on speed or usage are decided by the US military and ultimately POTUS.
## US ambassador warns of retaliation
US ambassador threatens 'devastating' US retaliation if Europe changes spectrum plan.

> European companies could face 'devastating' retaliation unless the bloc revised the plan, which he said would discriminate against American firms such as Starlink.
## Starlink India controversy
Musk questions Ambani’s role in Starlink India delays.
## India regulatory response
India says Starlink and competitors undergo similar security checks.
## European spectrum plan
EU proposes spectrum reserved for European satellite operators.
## Starlink’s satellite dominance
Starlink has over 11,000 satellites in orbit, far ahead of European providers.
## Key takeaway

European telecoms plan joint satellite service to reduce reliance on Starlink.