Eutelsat Launches First Satellites After Merger Using SpaceX Rocket

Eutelsat, the world’s third-largest satellite operator by revenue, successfully launched 20 satellites on Sunday using Elon Musk’s SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The launch from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base marked the company’s first major satellite deployment since the merger of Eutelsat and Britain’s OneWeb in September last year.

Eutelsat CEO Eva Berneke expressed optimism about the launch, highlighting the company’s plan to continue deploying satellites in the coming years. The Paris-based company now operates a constellation of over 600 low Earth orbit satellites, catering to broadcasters, telecom companies, and radio stations.

“We aim to integrate more closely into the telecommunications ecosystem,” Berneke said, noting that while satellites remain a niche in the broader connectivity landscape, they play an essential role. Telecom operators, including France’s Orange and Australia’s Telstra, are among Eutelsat’s clients, with discussions ongoing with U.S. operators such as AT&T.

Eutelsat has a $4 billion backlog of orders, with expectations to expand services in markets like India and Saudi Arabia. India, a rapidly growing market expected to reach $1.9 billion by 2030, is in the process of opening up to satellite services, though it faces regulatory challenges with domestic players like Starlink. Berneke stated that Eutelsat is ready to act once India allows satellite services, with plans for immediate expansion.

Additionally, Eutelsat is exploring opportunities to provide in-flight connectivity for aviation companies, offering services like internet browsing. The company expects its revenue to grow starting next year as these projects come to fruition.