The satellite industry's most expensive problem isn't in orbit, it's on the ground. The challenge lies in the financial systems that underpin these partnerships, which are stuck in the past. While satellite operators and mobile network operators (MNOs) are making promising strides in expanding global connectivity, their financial infrastructure remains a bottleneck. The article highlights the irony of satellite operators' naivety leading to innovative commercial models, while MNOs' resistance to change hinders progress. The author argues that the industry must embrace the GSMA's Billing and Charging Evolution (BCE) framework to unlock the full potential of satellite communications. The analogy of German automakers' delay in embracing electric vehicles serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of timely adaptation. The article concludes by urging the industry to act swiftly, as the future of satellite connectivity hangs in the balance. It's a call to action, urging both satellite and MNO industries to come together and create a sustainable financial framework for their partnerships.
