How were the two operators selected?
The Commission, with the assistance of independent external experts, evaluated whether the applicants demonstrated the required level of technical and commercial development of their satellite systems. Such assessment relied on the satisfactory completion of five milestones regarding for instance the construction of the satellites or their launch. The credibility of applicants and the viability of the proposed mobile satellite systems were also taken into account. Two companies, Inmarsat Ventures Limited and Solaris Mobile Limited, demonstrated the required level of technical and commercial development of their satellite systems. No further selection was required as the two candidates could be accommodated in the available spectrum. The selected applicants will be bound by the commitments that they have undertaken, including commitments made concerning consumer and competitive benefits and geographic coverage.
