Kongsberg Satellite Services AS faces a 1.5 million kroner fine from the Norwegian Communications Authority for operating unauthorized satellite communications equipment. The breach involves ground stations that transmitted data without proper licensing, according to Nkom’s ruling issued on Friday.
The authority concluded that KSAT’s ground stations in Tromsø and Svalbard violated Norway’s satellite communication regulations. These stations handle data from polar-orbiting satellites, including those used for weather monitoring and maritime surveillance. Nkom stated that KSAT failed to obtain required permits before activating the equipment.
KSAT acknowledged receipt of the fine but declined to comment further. The company operates ground stations globally and provides satellite communication services to government agencies and private clients. Its Tromsø facility is one of the largest satellite tracking stations in the world.
Nkom’s decision follows an investigation that began after a tip from another satellite operator. The authority found that KSAT had used frequencies not allocated for its operations. Norway’s satellite regulations require companies to secure spectrum licenses to prevent interference with other services.
The fine is the largest ever imposed by Nkom for unauthorized satellite communications. Previous penalties for similar violations have ranged from 200,000 to 800,000 kroner. KSAT has 30 days to appeal the decision.
Source: digi.no