Leveraging Terrestrial Mobile Spectrum for D2D capacity
This article was first published in the GTPRN 2026 Newsletter, February 2026. It provides a fresh perspective on the merits of leveraging terrestrial mobile spectrum for D2D capacity. Terrestrial mobile spectrum could be used to substantially increase D2D capacity precisely where it is needed the most given that in 90% of the globe’s surface there is no shortage of spectrum.
Direct-to-device (D2D) satellite technology offers a significant opportunity to extend mobile connectivity across the entire surface of the Earth by leveraging existing terrestrial mobile spectrum. This paper explores how large portions of globally allocated mobile spectrum remain unused across most of the planet because terrestrial mobile networks cover only around 30% of land areas—equivalent to roughly 10% of the Earth’s total surface.
The analysis argues that D2D low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite systems can complement terrestrial networks by providing connectivity in areas where building mobile infrastructure is economically unviable, such as remote land regions and oceans. Because traffic demand in these areas is typically low, relatively modest spectral efficiency can still support useful services including messaging, voice calls and basic internet access.
The paper also examines regulatory and technical considerations for enabling such use, including potential interference management and the need for coordinated international approaches. By enabling terrestrial mobile spectrum to be used from space — particularly in underutilised bands such as legacy FDD allocations — regulators and operators could unlock global coverage while making far more efficient use of existing spectrum resources.
Other insights
Spectrum Renewal: A Framework for Spectrum Valuation and Pricing
Mobile connectivity supports economic development, social participation and digital innovation across every modern economy. Yet the performance and resilience of this ecosystem depend on a scarce national asset – radio spectrum. As many countries approach key licence renewal milestones for the original IMT 4G spectrum bands that were issued 10 to 20 years ago, the question of how to value spectrum and how to determine an appropriate renewal price takes on increasing importance in the case where the spectrum is being renewed via an administrative or hybrid auction process.
Navigating Spectrum Licence Renewal: Lessons from Australia
Australia’s spectrum licence renewal process shows how operators can align regulatory engagement with commercial strategy. This case study highlights Coleago’s role in helping Optus secure optimal outcomes, from evidence-based submissions to spectrum planning for 5G and 6G.
Tanzania’s 3.6 GHz Spectrum Auction: Key Insights and Lessons for Future 5G Awards
Tanzania’s recent 3.6 GHz spectrum auction marks a major step toward 5G, but its design choices raise important questions about efficiency and fairness. Coleago’s latest white paper reviews the TCRA auction and shares key lessons for regulators and operators shaping future 5G spectrum awards.
Implications of a Full Transition from DTT to IPTV in the UK by 2035
In May this year, Coleago published a report prepared for the UK Spectrum Policy Forum which provides a technical and strategic assessment of future options for use of the UHF band (470–694 MHz) in the United Kingdom beyond 2034.
The European 5G Fairytale
For years, European policymakers and telecom operators have touted the impressive figure: “89% 5G coverage of populated areas.” On paper, this paints a picture of near-ubiquitous, high-speed connectivity. Scratch the surface however, and the reality looks quite different.
Maximising Shareholder Value in Spectrum Auctions
Spectrum auctions, while common in the telecom industry, are complex and high-risk events that can significantly influence a company’s long-term performance. Missteps, especially vague auction objectives and poor valuation discipline, can lead to substantial destruction of shareholder value.