Eutelsat Charts a Concrete Path for Satellite Expansion

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Eutelsat is tightening the bolts on its satellite strategy with a series of coordinated moves designed to solidify its European standing. A major order for next-generation OneWeb satellites, a fresh launch partnership, and the strategic importance of the IRIS2 initiative form the core of this push. Speaking in Brussels, CEO Jean‑François Fallacher also issued a warning against the fragmentation of Europe's satellite constellation ambitions. The key question now is how these pieces fit into a coherent and actionable timeline.

• Airbus order for 440 LEO satellites (100 + 340), with deliveries commencing from the end of 2026
• Multi-launch agreement signed with MaiaSpace for missions starting in 2027, involving roughly ten launches through 2029
• Capital increase of €1.5 billion finalized in December
• IRIS2 project targeting initial premium services from 2029

Financially, Eutelsat has already fortified its position. Last December, the company successfully completed a €1.5 billion capital raise. Participants included the French state, the UK government, Bharti Space, CMA CGM, and the Fonds Stratégique de Participations.

To ensure this hardware reaches orbit, Eutelsat is diversifying its launch options. On January 16, a multi-launch agreement with MaiaSpace was confirmed, according to Reuters. MaiaSpace, a French startup and subsidiary of ArianeGroup, is developing a partially reusable mini-launch vehicle, described as a first of its kind in Europe. Launches under this pact are scheduled to begin in 2027, with industry reports indicating approximately ten missions between late 2027 and 2029.

OneWeb Constellation Refresh Underway

On the operational front, Eutelsat is moving to sustain its core Low Earth Orbit (LEO) assets. The company and Airbus Defence and Space announced an order for 340 additional LEO satellites for the OneWeb constellation on January 12. This follows an order for 100 satellites placed in December 2024, bringing the total new units to 440.

Manufacturing will take place at the Airbus facility in Toulouse, with the satellite deliveries set to begin at the end of 2026. According to the release, the new generation is intended to ensure operational continuity, replacing earlier batches that are approaching the end of their service life. The first OneWeb satellites were launched approximately six years ago.

IRIS2: A Call for European Unity in Space

At the European Space Conference in Brussels, CEO Fallacher framed the IRIS2 initiative as the culmination of years of effort and a "critical moment for Europe." The project aims to provide Europe with next-generation, autonomous, and resilient satellite capabilities. He identified 2029 as the target horizon for the first high-value services.

Concurrently, he delivered a pointed argument against a proliferation of parallel European constellation projects. His rationale centered on limited spectrum availability and constrained financing. Fallacher cautioned that a multitude of separate initiatives would weaken Europe's competitive stance at a time when major global players are advancing rapidly.

The roadmap that emerges is clear: new OneWeb satellite deliveries starting end of 2026, launches commencing in 2027, and the politically anchored milestone of initial IRIS2 services from 2029.

@ boerse-global.de | FR0010221234 EUTELSAT