Orange, Eutelsat boost Oneweb coverage

Orange and Eutelsat have inaugurated a new teleport in Martinique, marking the launch of Eutelsat’s satellite gateway for the OneWeb constellation in the Caribbean

This initiative represents a key step in enhancing satellite coverage and connectivity across the region.

Located in Lamentin, the teleport — constructed and managed by Orange on behalf of Eutelsat — features 14 LEO antennas designed to extend connectivity to remote areas and strengthen the constellation’s global reach. The facility will deliver low-latency communications that benefit residents, businesses, and the maritime and defense sectors, thereby boosting the region’s digital competitiveness.

Building resilience and digital sovereignty

The teleport is part of a joint strategy between Orange and Eutelsat to deliver faster, more reliable, and inclusive connectivity. Eutelsat selected the Caribbean for its strategic geographical position and the need to improve coverage across isolated land and sea areas. This installation enhances network resilience, ensures continuous access to high-speed connectivity, and supports safety and communications for maritime operations.

“With this ground station now operational in Martinique, our OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) service is available across the Caribbean, providing new high-speed connectivity options for island communities and regional networks. It also closes the final coverage gap over the Atlantic, ensuring greater continuity and reliability along key transatlantic maritime routes. Together with Orange, we are strengthening the Caribbean's connectivity infrastructure for the long term,” said Fabio Mando, Chief Operations Officer, Eutelsat.

Connected to submarine cable systems such as Kanawa, Southern Caribbean Fiber, and the Eastern Caribbean Fiber System, the teleport benefits from Orange’s extensive terrestrial and undersea network. With over 45 years of experience and certified Tier 4 WTA teleport operations in France, Orange’s global network spans Africa, the Middle East, India, and Brazil. This makes the Martinique facility a strategic regional hub for digital transformation, economic development, and innovation in the Caribbean.

“Our partnership with Eutelsat exemplifies Orange's commitment to building resilient and sovereign connectivity by combining the complementarity of multi-orbit satellite networks with our advanced terrestrial and submarine infrastructures. This project in Martinique is part of a European strategy of trust and digital independence, where collaboration and innovation are essential to ensuring reliable, secure and sustainable connectivity for our territories,” added Jean-Louis Le Roux, EVP Orange International Networks.

A responsible and sustainable initiative

The project’s implementation prioritised environmental responsibility, ensuring coexistence with agricultural activities and protection of natural habitats. A mangrove restoration effort was also integrated as part of Orange and Eutelsat’s commitment to sustainable development and ecological preservation.

“This teleport embodies our commitment to connecting 'peripheral' territories while respecting the environment. It opens new perspectives for economic development and innovation by providing reliable and sustainable connectivity for all. It is a true digital revolution transforming how these territories integrate into the international environment,” commented Samir Banzahra, Orange Antilles Guyane Director.