Chile’s Undersecretariat of Telecommunications (Subtel) has published a modification to the technical standard governing fixed satellite service, adding new frequency bands for operation in the country. The update, published in the Official Gazette on July 2, 2026, expands the standard beyond the previously authorized Ku and Ka bands to include the W band, with the V band set to follow in the coming days. The change increases available spectrum for satellite transmission, supporting faster, more stable, and more resilient networks nationwide. It applies to all current fixed satellite service providers in Chile, including Starlink and HughesNet, as well as any future market entrants.
New W and V Band Allocations for Fixed Satellite Service
Chile’s fixed satellite service standard previously recognized only the Ku and Ka frequency bands. Subtel’s exempt resolution adds the W band to the regulatory framework immediately, with formal incorporation of the V band expected in the coming days. Together, the new bands expand the amount of radio spectrum available for satellite operations, giving providers additional capacity to transmit data and manage network traffic. Subtel has described the move as widening the country’s “digital highway” for satellite communications.
Impact on Satellite Connectivity and the Digital Divide
The expanded spectrum allocation is designed to improve data transmission capacity, network stability, and connection speeds for satellite users across Chile. The impact is expected to be most significant in remote and rural areas where terrestrial infrastructure, such as fiber optics or 5G, is limited or unavailable. By increasing the volume of traffic satellite networks can support, the update is intended to strengthen connectivity in isolated regions and improve network resilience during emergencies or infrastructure outages, complementing existing terrestrial telecommunications infrastructure.
Regulatory Scope for Existing and Future Satellite Operators
The updated technical standard applies broadly to all fixed satellite service providers and operators currently active in Chile, including Starlink and HughesNet, as well as any companies that enter the market in the future. Subtel has framed the measure as part of a broader effort to modernize the country’s regulatory framework and make it more competitive, with the aim of attracting additional investment in satellite infrastructure and services.
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Quick Country Facts
Chile
Certification Body: Subsecretaria de Telecomunicaciones (SUBTEL)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Manufacturer
In-Country Testing Requirement: Testing Not Required
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