Eutelsat (ETL.PA), the world’s third-largest satellite operator by revenue, successfully launched 20 satellites for its communications network on Sunday, marking a significant milestone since merging with OneWeb last year. The satellites were launched using Elon Musk’s SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base at 0513 GMT.
“This is the first OneWeb satellite launch since the merger,” CEO Eva Berneke said in an interview with Reuters. “We will be launching more satellites over the coming years.”
The Paris-based company, formed by the merger of France’s Eutelsat and Britain’s OneWeb, now operates a constellation of over 600 low-earth orbit satellites that serve broadcasters, telecom companies, and radio stations. Eutelsat aims to deepen its integration into the telecom ecosystem, working alongside major telecom operators like France’s Orange and Australia’s Telstra, while also engaging in talks with AT&T in the U.S.
With a backlog of orders worth $4 billion, Eutelsat is particularly eyeing markets like India and Saudi Arabia for future expansion. India, projected to grow 36% annually to $1.9 billion by 2030, is in the process of opening up its satellite services sector. Eutelsat is waiting for these changes to unlock further opportunities.
The company is also exploring partnerships with aviation firms to provide in-flight internet connectivity and expects revenue growth to pick up next year, Berneke added.