France’s state railway operator SNCF is preparing to introduce satellite internet on its trains, joining a growing movement across Europe to improve onboard connectivity using low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite networks. The company announced on Friday it will launch a tender seeking providers to supply satellite-powered internet services.
Dual-Network Strategy
In a statement to Reuters, SNCF said it is adopting an “innovative approach” that combines terrestrial (4G/5G) and satellite internet to enhance network resilience and continuity across its vast rail network, including in rural and isolated areas.
“The satellite plus 4G/5G combination would eliminate dead zones and offer stable, fast service adapted to new uses such as streaming or video conferencing,” the company said.
Possible Partners: Starlink and Eutelsat
According to a source familiar with the matter, Elon Musk’s Starlink and France’s Eutelsat are among the companies being considered for the project. While SNCF declined to confirm specific talks, Eutelsat has publicly expressed interest, stating it is already in discussions with SNCF about a potential pilot project.
A Eutelsat spokesperson highlighted its experience in similar pilot efforts in Britain and Kazakhstan, and emphasized its position as one of only two active LEO providers currently operating, alongside Starlink. Eutelsat’s OneWeb network, backed by the French government, operates more than 600 LEO satellites.
“We intend to bid for the contract with our French partners such as Orange Business Services,” said the spokesperson.
A Broader European Trend
France’s move mirrors similar efforts across Europe:
-
Italy’s Ferrovie dello Stato ran a two-week trial in June with providers including Starlink.
-
Scotland’s ScotRail began a six-week Starlink trial in May.
These initiatives seek to address longstanding problems with mobile-based train internet, which often suffers from dead zones, tunnel interference, and rapid handovers between towers—particularly challenging at high train speeds.
In contrast, LEO satellites offer more stable, continuous coverage, including in rural and mountainous regions where cellular signals are often weak or absent.
Looking Ahead
With public demand growing for high-speed, uninterrupted internet on the move, satellite connectivity is poised to become a mainstay of next-generation transportation infrastructure. France’s entry into the space-connected railway space may soon redefine the standard for European rail travel.