Connectivity
ITU
satellite communications
Space
wrc-27
As governments and technical experts from around the world prepare for the World Radiocommunication Conference 2027 (WRC-27), one issue stands out for its potential to save or endanger human lives: the regulation of non-geostationary satellite systems (non-GSO) that deliver safety-of-life satellite services.
Satellites: the silent guardians of safety
In vast oceans and remote skies, satellite systems are the only line of communication. Where terrestrial networks fail, non-GSO satellite systems thrive. These systems power life-saving services such as:
- GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System): Connecting ships in distress with rescue coordination centres.
- AMS(R)S (Aeronautical Mobile Satellite Route Services): Providing aircraft with emergency communication over oceans and remote airspace.
These kinds of services are not commercial extras; they are internationally recognised, legally protected services under the SOLAS convention, ITU Constitution, and Radio Regulations (RR). As spelled out in RR Articles 31 and 32, distress communications carry absolute priority and must remain uninterrupted and reliable.
What’s at risk under WRC-27 Agenda Item 1.5?
At WRC-27, Agenda Item 1.5 aims to study regulatory tools to stop unauthorised operations by non-GSO earth stations. Proposals discussed at the ITU working parties included geo-fencing, exclusion zones, and more complex authorisation requirements.
While these tools could help fight misuse, a blanket approach could unintentionally cut off or degrade safety services. Non-GSO satellite systems cannot always technically isolate coverage over a single territory without affecting surrounding regions. This could result in unintended service blackouts, right when connectivity is needed most.
Furthermore, the absence of satellite services over any portion of a jurisdiction’s territory, whether through deliberate blocking or unintended regulatory consequences, carries the serious risk of isolating that area from essential safety-of-life services in its airspace and maritime zones. Without these services, ships and aircraft transiting these areas could lose their only reliable means of communication for distress alerts, emergency coordination, and navigation support, leaving them vulnerable during critical situations. Such isolation not only undermines compliance with international obligations under the SOLAS Convention, the ITU Constitution, and the Radio Regulations, but also jeopardises the ability of rescue authorities to respond effectively, potentially resulting in avoidable loss of life.
ITU regulations: clear priorities for safety-of-life satellite services
The ITU Constitution and the Radio Regulations give unambiguous guidance:
- Article 40: Safety-of-life telecommunications must receive absolute priority.
- RR numbers 4.9 and 30.2: Stations in distress may use any available radiocommunication means to seek help.
- Articles 31.15 and 32.1: Safety services using satellite systems must be continuously monitored and protected.
These provisions are not merely suggestions but binding commitments, as international conventions mandate the enactment and implementation of all necessary laws, decrees, orders, regulations and other required measures to ensure their full and complete application.
What can be done at WRC-27
As WRC-27 Agenda Item 1.5 evolves, it is essential to clearly distinguish between unauthorised commercial or consumer satellite usage, subject to enforcement of local regulations, and safety-of-life satellite services for aviation and maritime operations, which must be preserved, prioritised, and protected. Any future regulatory framework must uphold existing ITU regulatory frameworks for the protection of safety-of-life operations, avoid technical measures that could disrupt essential services, and ensure that non-GSO MSS systems can continue operating without interruption during emergencies.
It is also important for the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to closely follow and actively engage in the ongoing regulatory discussions under WRC-27 Agenda Item 1.5. Their expertise and oversight are essential to ensuring that any measures adopted preserve uninterrupted access to safety-of-life satellite services for aviation and maritime operations, while also safeguarding global compliance with the standards and obligations that protect lives at sea and in the air.
Charting the way ahead
Regulatory frameworks should seek a careful balance between addressing concerns around misuse of satellite commercial services and ensuring the continued protection of services that are vital to human safety. The ITU has long recognised the vital role that safety-of-life satellite services play in protecting lives and supporting global emergency response.
As Member States prepare for WRC-27, it is important to ensure that measures aimed at enhancing regulatory certainty do not unintentionally compromise these critical capabilities. Continued collaboration and thoughtful decision-making will be key to safeguarding the satellite services that underpin safety and resilience worldwide.
To learn how your organisation can navigate the regulatory complexities of satellite communications and leverage opportunities in this evolving landscape, please contact Juan Cacace at [email protected], or Xochitl Hernandez at [email protected], or Jesus Rivera at [email protected]
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