Eutelsat, the world\u0027s third-largest satellite operator by revenue, has successfully launched 20 satellites for its communications network, marking its first major move since merging with Britain\u0027s OneWeb last year. The satellites were carried into space by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, which lifted off from California\u0027s Vandenberg Space Force Base at 5:13 a.m. on Sunday.
“This is the first OneWeb launch of the satellites since the merger,” CEO Eva Berneke told Reuters in an interview. “We will be launching more satellites over the coming years.”
The Paris-based group, formed by the merger of France\u0027s Eutelsat and Britain\u0027s OneWeb in September last year, now boasts a constellation of over 600 low Earth orbit satellites. These satellites provide services to broadcasters, telecom companies, and radio stations worldwide.
Berneke emphasized the company\u0027s ambition to integrate more deeply into the telecommunications ecosystem. “We really want to integrate into the telco ecosystem,” she said. “Satellites are an interesting niche in the overall connectivity ecosystems, where telcos are the big boys in the class, and satellite will always be a smaller part.”
Eutelsat currently counts major telecom operators such as France\u0027s Orange and Australia\u0027s Telstra among its clients. The company is also in discussions with other operators, including AT&T in the United States, to expand its services.
Looking towards emerging markets, Eutelsat is awaiting opportunities to enter countries like India and Saudi Arabia. The company holds a backlog of orders worth $4 billion and sees significant potential in these regions.
In addition to terrestrial communications, Eutelsat is in talks with aviation companies to offer in-flight connectivity, including internet browsing services for passengers. Berneke expressed optimism about the company\u0027s growth prospects, stating that revenue is expected to start increasing from next year.
Reference(s):
Eutelsat uses SpaceX rocket to launch first satellites after merger
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