On May 15, 2026, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) released draft amendments to the Radio Frequency Spectrum Regulations, 2015 and the Radio Frequency Spectrum Fees Regulations, 2010. These proposals specifically target satellite services, implementing recommendations from ICASA’s Inquiry into the Licensing Framework for Satellite Services. The draft addresses new provisions for Earth Stations in Motion (ESIM/ESV), satellite user terminals, registration of foreign satellite space segment operators, and a restructured spectrum fee formula.

Key changes include a 90-day licensing exemption for foreign ESIMs compliant with ITU Resolutions and technical standards, mandatory permanent monitoring and control for all ESIMs via a Network Control and Monitoring Centre (NCMC), and a free registration requirement for foreign satellite space segment operators. The spectrum fee structure is also revised, introducing a frequency factor to incentivize migration to higher bands and a security factor for fee relief in the security sector.

Importantly, the draft does not alter South Africa’s type approval regime for radio equipment. Manufacturers and importers remain subject to existing ICASA type approval requirements, with no new conformity assessment routes or technical standards introduced. However, the draft may indirectly affect market conditions and technical expectations for satellite terminal vendors, particularly regarding NCMC compatibility and radio astronomy coordination.

The public consultation period closed on June 29, 2026. The amendments are not yet enacted, and stakeholders should monitor ICASA’s publications for the final regulatory text. No immediate changes to type approval planning are required, but mapping affected SKUs and confirming technical compliance with proposed requirements is recommended.

This is a Medium Impact regulatory development.

The draft amendments introduce significant changes to the regulatory framework for satellite services, but are not yet final or mandatory.

Key reasons for Medium Impact:

• Proposes new obligations for ESIM operators and foreign satellite space segment operators
• Introduces a restructured spectrum fee formula affecting operator costs and market dynamics
• Does not change type approval or conformity assessment for manufacturers, but may affect technical and procurement requirements indirectly
• The amendments are still in draft form and not yet in force

Who is affected?

Satellite service operators, foreign space segment operators, ESIM operators, manufacturers and importers of satellite terminal equipment, and stakeholders in the satellite communications sector.

Conclusion:

Stakeholders should closely monitor the finalization of these amendments and assess the impact on their operations and product offerings, but no immediate compliance action is required for equipment approval.