Intelsat unveiled a strategic leap forward in its service offerings with an expanded collaboration with Eutelsat Group regarding its OneWeb low-earth orbit (LEO) constellation
This marks a pivotal moment for multi-orbit satellite connectivity solutions, propelling Intelsat to the forefront of the evolving global connectivity landscape.
The agreement entails a US$250mn commitment for LEO service over the initial six years, with an option for an additional US$250mn. This pact will significantly enhance and seamlessly integrate LEO capabilities into Intelsat's solution portfolio across its existing and prospective customer base.
"We’ve been partnering with Eutelsat for quite some time now, leveraging its OneWeb LEO constellation to offer a multi-orbit solution, primarily in commercial aviation," said Dave Wajsgras, CEO of Intelsat. “We’re now seeing so many additional opportunities for customers to benefit from multi-orbit solutions. We believe it’s in Intelsat’s interests, Eutelsat’s interests, and our customers’ interests for us to expand the partnership that’s already in place – one that is working well and has strong demand.”
Under this collaboration, Intelsat will collaborate with Eutelsat in developing its Next Generation OneWeb constellation, offering invaluable insights and functionality input to ensure the constellation's alignment with evolving customer requirements.
"Our team is convinced that pairing Intelsat’s experience and our GEO and terrestrial network with the capabilities we will access via Eutelsat Group’s OneWeb LEO network will enable Intelsat to deliver the absolute best and most comprehensive customer solutions supporting networks, government and mobility sectors and fueling our robust growth trajectory," added Wajsgras.
Eva Berneke, CEO of Eutelsat Group, concluded, “This enhanced partnership underscores our unwavering confidence in the capabilities of the OneWeb constellation, both presently and in the foreseeable future. It underscores the imperative for major satellite operators to deliver multi-orbit solutions to meet evolving market demands.”