First 32 next-generation OneWeb satellites handed over to Eutelsat by Airbus

Airbus Defence and Space has delivered 32 latest-generation OneWeb Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to Eutelsat. The spacecraft are now being prepared for shipment from Airbus' constellation satellite production facility in Toulouse, France, ahead of an upcoming launch in the United States. The handover is a major milestone in Eutelsat's programme to renew and enhance the OneWeb constellation.

The satellites are the first wave of Eutelsat's fleet of 669 next-generation OneWeb satellites. As the new spacecraft progressively replace those nearing the end of their operational lives, they are intended to maintain uninterrupted service for customers while increasing overall network capabilities. The programme allows Eutelsat to continue providing secure, resilient LEO connectivity to businesses, governments and institutions worldwide.

The delivery combines Eutelsat's experience operating a global LEO network with Airbus' manufacturing expertise, and follows the recent transfer of Airbus' satellite series production line back to Europe. The companies said the achievement demonstrates Europe's capacity to build key infrastructure supporting global customer services.

"This is an exciting moment for Eutelsat as our first new OneWeb satellites leave the production line and head for launch. For our customers, it demonstrates our commitment to keep delivering the connectivity they rely on as we renew the network. For Europe, it demonstrates our ability to build and sustain a global LEO capability," said Jean-Francois Fallacher, Chief Executive Officer of Eutelsat.

"This moment holds dual importance for us: it symbolises our industrial relocalisation and confirms our capability to deliver satellites at high-volume and cadence. It reinforces our credibility in empowering our customers within the increasingly critical constellation market," said Alain Faure, Head of Space Systems at Airbus Defence and Space.