Eutelsat Orders 340 OneWeb Satellites from Airbus, Rivals Starlink

• Total program cost estimated at 2 billion to 2.2 billion euros ($2.3-2.6 billion) between 2024 and 2029, with satellites replacing aging units launched six years ago
• Eutelsat operates the only other low-Earth orbit constellation besides Starlink, providing broadband connectivity to underserved areas for businesses, governments and consumers
• France led a 1.5-billion-euro capital increase last year, reflecting European government support for maintaining an independent satellite internet capability

Summary: Eutelsat Orders 340 OneWeb Satellites from Airbus

Key Transaction Details:

Eutelsat Group has ordered 340 satellites from Airbus to refresh and expand its OneWeb low-Earth-orbit (LEO) constellation. Combined with a previous order of 100 satellites, this brings the total contracted to 440 satellites, with deliveries starting late 2026.

Financial Implications:

While contract specifics weren't disclosed, Eutelsat previously indicated the 340-satellite extension would cost approximately €2.0-2.2 billion ($2.3-2.6 billion) between 2024 and 2029. France led a €1.5 billion capital increase for Eutelsat last year.

Strategic Context:

The satellites will gradually replace aging vehicles from OneWeb's fleet, first launched six years ago. OneWeb merged with Eutelsat in 2023. The constellation extension is planned to continue until the European Union's IRIS² constellation becomes available.

Market Position:

Eutelsat operates the only LEO constellation besides Elon Musk's Starlink, making it strategically significant for European governments. The satellites provide broadband internet connectivity to businesses, governments, and consumers in underserved areas, competing directly with Starlink's space-based internet services.

Government Involvement:

The company is backed by French and British governments, with France recently tightening its grip through the capital increase. European governments have shown strong interest due to Eutelsat's strategic importance as an alternative to Starlink.

Companies Involved:

• Eutelsat (satellite operator)
• Airbus (satellite manufacturer)
• Starlink/SpaceX (main competitor)

This order strengthens Europe's position in the competitive space-based internet market and ensures continuity of independent satellite communications infrastructure.