Eutelsat Uses SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket for First Satellite Launch Post-Merger

Eutelsat, the world’s third-largest satellite operator by revenue, has successfully launched 20 satellites using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. The satellites are part of its communications network, marking the first significant move since the merger between France’s Eutelsat and Britain’s OneWeb. This ambitious project was launched from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base, solidifying Eutelsat’s commitment to expanding satellite-based communications. The merger has resulted in a constellation of over 600 low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, poised to serve broadcasters, telecom operators, and other industries globally.

Eutelsat’s Vision for Expanded Connectivity

Eva Berneke, CEO of Eutelsat, highlighted the strategic significance of this launch: “This is the first OneWeb launch of satellites since the merger. We will be launching more satellites over the coming years,” she said in an interview with Reuters. Eutelsat aims to strengthen its footprint in the telco ecosystem. Despite satellites being a minor part of the connectivity landscape dominated by telecom giants, their unique role in bridging connectivity gaps and providing solutions in remote areas positions them as vital contributors to global communication.

Partnerships and Growth Opportunities

The Paris-based entity, born from the merger between Eutelsat and OneWeb in September of last year, counts telecommunications operators like France’s Orange and Australia’s Telstra among its clients, with negotiations underway with AT&T in the United States. This speaks to Eutelsat’s growing influence in the telecommunications sector and the potential to cater to diverse stakeholders.

India and Saudi Arabia are two markets where Eutelsat is waiting for regulatory approvals to launch satellite services. The Indian market, in particular, is expected to experience a significant boom, growing by 36% annually to reach $1.9 billion by 2030. Despite regulatory hurdles and friction between domestic players and international companies like Starlink, Eutelsat is optimistic about its future in India. “We have some of our backlog sitting in the Indian market… It sits there until India gets open; the day it gets open, we’ll start building,” said Berneke.

In-Flight Connectivity and Future Revenue Streams

Eutelsat is also in discussions with aviation companies to diversify its services to provide in-flight connectivity, allowing passengers to enjoy internet browsing while in transit. With in-flight connectivity becoming a key differentiator for airlines, Eutelsat’s move into this space represents a significant opportunity for growth. Eva Berneke confirmed that the company anticipates increased revenues beginning next year, underscoring the potential impact of in-flight internet services.

Conclusion

Eutelsat’s first satellite launch post-merger with OneWeb is a significant milestone, signaling a new era in the satellite communication industry. Using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket demonstrates their confidence in leveraging state-of-the-art technology to expand their satellite constellation. With a backlog of $4 billion in orders and ongoing negotiations in burgeoning markets like India and Saudi Arabia and with aviation partners, Eutelsat is set for expansive growth. By integrating satellite technology into the broader telecom ecosystem, Eutelsat continues to enhance its role in global connectivity, striving to serve regions that need it the most.