Paris, Oct. 18, 2024 – Eutelsat successfully launched its first set of satellites following its recent merger with OneWeb, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expanded satellite broadband strategy.
The launch, conducted by SpaceX from Cape Canaveral, Florida, is part of Eutelsat’s mission to enhance global satellite communications and strengthen its competitive edge in the rapidly growing space-based internet market.
The satellites were deployed aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, continuing the partnership between the two companies. This latest launch aims to bolster Eutelsat’s low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation, a key component of its strategy to provide seamless broadband coverage worldwide.
A New Era for Eutelsat
The launch marks a pivotal moment for Eutelsat, which completed its merger with OneWeb earlier this year. By combining OneWeb’s LEO network with Eutelsat’s existing geostationary satellite infrastructure, the newly merged entity seeks to compete with major players like SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon’s Kuiper project in the satellite internet sector.
“The successful launch of these satellites underscores our commitment to delivering enhanced connectivity across underserved regions and ensuring the future of satellite-based broadband,” said Eutelsat CEO Eva Berneke.
Strengthening Global Connectivity
Eutelsat’s expanded network will enable faster, more reliable internet access, particularly in remote and rural areas that lack traditional broadband infrastructure. The integration of LEO satellites with geostationary networks is expected to provide both high-speed data and lower latency, crucial for industries such as maritime, aviation, and disaster response.
The company plans to launch additional satellites in the coming months as it continues building out its constellation. The next phases of deployment will focus on expanding coverage and increasing network resilience, ensuring consistent service across various regions.
Competition in the Satellite Internet Space
Eutelsat’s expansion comes at a time of fierce competition in the satellite broadband sector. Starlink, with its constellation of over 4,000 satellites, has already established itself as a dominant force, while Amazon’s Kuiper is set to begin deployments soon. The merger with OneWeb gives Eutelsat a stronger foothold, providing a unique hybrid system that combines both LEO and geostationary satellites.
Industry analysts believe the merger positions Eutelsat to capture a share of the growing market, particularly among enterprise customers and governments looking for resilient communication networks.
Future Prospects
As Eutelsat continues its satellite deployments, the company is also exploring opportunities to expand partnerships with other satellite operators and develop innovative services. With demand for reliable broadband connectivity surging worldwide, the company aims to leverage its expanded infrastructure to support a range of applications, from remote education to telemedicine.
The launch of these satellites signals a new chapter for Eutelsat, with the merger providing momentum for its global ambitions. As more satellites join the constellation, the company’s ability to compete in the evolving satellite broadband industry will likely define its long-term success.