The new spacecraft will progressively replace satellites nearing the end of their operational lives. Eutelsat said the programme would preserve uninterrupted service while expanding the capabilities of its low Earth orbit network.
“This is an exciting moment for Eutelsat as our first new OneWeb satellites leave the production line and head for launch,” said Jean-François Fallacher, Eutelsat’s chief executive officer. “For our customers, it demonstrates our commitment to keep delivering the connectivity they rely on as we renew the network.”
The delivery follows the transfer of Airbus’ satellite series production line back to Europe. It brings together Airbus’ manufacturing capacity and Eutelsat’s experience operating a global low Earth orbit constellation.
“This moment holds dual importance for us: it symbolises our industrial relocalisation and confirms our capability to deliver satellites at high-volume and cadence,” said Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus Defence and Space. “It reinforces our credibility in empowering our customers within the increasingly critical constellation market.”
The renewal programme will support Eutelsat’s connectivity services for businesses, governments and institutions worldwide. The company said the replacement fleet would sustain secure and resilient communications while enhancing overall network performance.
