Chile has moved to open up more spectrum for satellite connectivity. On 2 July 2026, the Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones (SUBTEL) announced a modification to the technical standard governing the Fixed Satellite Service (FSS), incorporating new frequency bands for satellite operation in the country. The change was made through an exempt resolution published in Chile’s Official Gazette (Diario Oficial).
The headline addition is the W band, with SUBTEL stating that the incorporation of the V band will follow in the coming days.
What Has Changed
Until now, Chile’s technical standard for satellite service was built mainly around the established Ku and Ka bands. The updated standard broadens that framework to include higher-frequency ranges, starting with the W band and, shortly, the V band.
According to SUBTEL, opening up this additional spectrum is intended to increase network capacity, improve data transmission, and make more efficient use of the radio spectrum, enabling faster, more stable, and more efficient satellite networks.
Why This Matters
Chile’s stated goal is to strengthen satellite connectivity, particularly in remote and rural areas where terrestrial infrastructure such as fibre optics or 5G is limited or unavailable. By expanding the available spectrum, SUBTEL aims to support higher traffic volumes and more resilient connections, including during emergencies or service interruptions, complementing the country’s existing telecommunications infrastructure.
The regulator has also framed the update as a way to modernise its regulatory framework and broaden competition in the satellite market. The measure applies generally to all satellite internet operators already active in Chile, as well as to new companies that may enter the market in the future, with the aim of attracting further investment.
What This Means for Operators and Manufacturers
For satellite operators and equipment manufacturers, the addition of the W band (and the forthcoming V band) signals new opportunities to deploy higher-capacity satellite services in Chile, subject to the updated technical standard.
Businesses developing satellite ground equipment, user terminals, or related radio products for the Chilean market should review the revised FSS technical standard to understand the requirements applying to the newly incorporated bands, and monitor the upcoming publication that will formally add the V band. Aligning product design and certification planning with the expanded framework early will help ensure a smooth path to market.
To read the official announcement, access below (Spanish Only).
How C-PRAV Can Support You
C-PRAV helps manufacturers and operators achieve global market access for radio, wireless, and satellite communications products, including type approval for the Chilean market via SUBTEL. Our team can assess your equipment against Chile’s updated technical requirements, carry out the necessary radio and EMC testing and RF exposure assessment, and prepare and manage the certification documentation needed for a smooth approval process into the Chilean market.
Have questions? We’re here to help.