POSITION PAPER ON THE LEO D2D

The rapid development of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology is creating new opportunities to expand the accessibility of telecommunications services.

Particularly for Mongolia, which has a vast territory, sparse population, and geographically remote areas where traditional terrestrial networks are difficult to deploy, LEO satellite solutions can significantly extend coverage. This enables internet access to underserved and unserved regions, including remote communities and nomadic populations, bringing positive social and economic impacts.

For Mongolia, there is an increasing need to define and implement clear policies regarding satellite consumer broadband services and LEO-based Direct-to-Device (D2D) services.

To support the development of such policies, national telecom operators in Mongolia have articulated a unified position and proposed several foundational principles aligned with recommendations from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU):

  • D2D service providers should adopt a satellite–mobile network operator (MNO) partnership model. This would allow satellite connectivity to function as a coverage extension when users move beyond terrestrial network coverage, ensuring seamless and continuous service.
  • A balanced approach between innovation and regulation should be maintained. Timely adoption of new technologies will support long-term economic growth and enable advancements in IoT and the green economy.
  • All service providers operating within Mongolia must comply with the principle of regulatory parity, including requirements related to national security, data protection and sovereignty, and information security. These requirements can be implemented through a phased approach.
  • Successful deployment of D2D services in Mongolia is expected to expand telecom coverage, reduce the digital divide, and enhance emergency communication readiness.

 

For more detailed information, please refer to: https://cdn.greensoft.mn/uploads/users/2078/files/Position%20Paper_LEO%20service_MICOA_MNv9_0.pdf

 

MONGOLIAN INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION OPERATORS ASSOCIATION