Eutelsat awards major contract to Airbus
For OneWeb LEO constellation extension
Airbus Defence and Space has been awarded a contract by Eutelsat to extend its OneWeb Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. The agreement marks a new phase in developing OneWeb’s global satellite network, designed to provide high-speed internet access worldwide.
Under the contract terms, Airbus will be responsible for manufacturing the first batch of 100 satellites for the extension of the OneWeb constellation. The initial deliveries are expected to begin towards the end of 2026, ensuring the continuity of services for existing customers and expanding the capability to accommodate future demand.
Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus Defence and Space, said: “Airbus has manufactured all the current OneWeb satellites, and we are dedicated to supporting the continuation of this critical satellite network. Our role in extending the constellation aligns with our commitment to the success of Eutelsat’s operations and the evolution of OneWeb’s satellite service offerings.”
Eva Berneke, Eutelsat’s CEO, added: “We are relying on our long-term partnership with Airbus to start building the next generation of our OneWeb LEO constellation. This extension will ensure continuity of service for our existing customers.
“Still, it will introduce enhanced service features, preparing the constellation for integration with Europe’s IRIS2 multi-orbit system to launch in 2030. Our market experience confirms the growing demand for low Earth orbit satellite capacity, and we are excited to enter this next expansion stage.”
The new satellites will incorporate several key technological upgrades, including integration with 5G networks. They will be designed to align with the European Union’s planned IRIS2 constellation, which aims to provide next-generation satellite connectivity across Europe. Eutelsat will play a significant role in operating IRIS2, as it will commence operations in 2030.
All 100 new satellites will be constructed at Airbus’s manufacturing facility in Toulouse, France, with production scheduled to commence in 2026. This expansion will help meet the growing demand for global satellite connectivity, providing improved coverage, faster data speeds, and the ability to support new services like 5G connectivity in remote and underserved areas.
The partnership between Airbus and Eutelsat strengthens their ongoing collaboration, ensuring that OneWeb’s satellite network continues to evolve in line with global technological advancements.
Image: Eutelsat will play a significant role in operating IRIS2, as it will commence operations in 2030. Credit: Airbus
