Eutelsat Group, which combines Eutelsat and OneWeb, has signed a contract with its long-standing partner Airbus Defence and Space to build the extension of its OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation. Airbus has manufactured all the satellites in the current OneWeb fleet. Under the new agreement, Airbus will build 100 satellites for the first batches of the extension, with deliveries starting by the end of 2026.
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New Satellite Production Timeline
Production of all 100 new satellites will begin in early 2026 at Airbus's site in Toulouse. The first deliveries are planned for late 2026, ensuring uninterrupted service for existing and future customers.
5G and IRIS2 Compatibility
The new satellites will feature technological advancements, including 5G ground integration, and will be compatible with Europe's planned IRIS2 multi-orbit constellation, expected to become operational by 2030. Eutelsat, the primary architect and operator of IRIS2's LEO segment, sees this project as a strategic step towards its long-term goals.
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Eutelsat’s Long-Term Vision
Chief Executive Officer of Eutelsat Group commented: "We are relying on our long-standing partner, Airbus, to begin building the first batches of the Next Generation of our OneWeb LEO constellation, which will ensure we deliver continuity of service of the existing constellation with enhanced service features, as we move towards an architecture in line with the IRIS2 constellation in 2030."
"Our in-market experience shows us that the appetite for low Earth orbit capacity is growing rapidly, and we are excited to embark on the next stage of our journey to satisfy that demand," the CEO added.
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Capital Expenditure Outlook for 2025
Eutelsat confirmed that the satellite procurement aligns with its 2025 Capital Expenditure outlook and is fully consistent with its long-term financial framework.
