Eutelsat books two Ariane 64 launches for OneWeb renewal

(SpaceEnergy) Eutelsat has selected Arianespace for two dedicated Ariane 64 launches in 2027 and 2028 to support renewal and service continuity of its OneWeb low-Earth-orbit constellation.

The missions will launch from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana using Ariane 64, the four-booster and most powerful configuration of Ariane 6.

Eutelsat said the flights add diversity and flexibility to its launch arrangements as it progressively replaces earlier OneWeb spacecraft. The operator already has 440 replacement satellites procured and under construction.

The contract represents additional committed demand for Europe’s heavy-lift launch and propulsion infrastructure, including Ariane 64’s solid-propellant booster system, and follows the constellation’s earlier deployment through 13 Arianespace missions that placed 428 OneWeb satellites into orbit between 2019 and 2022.

Eutelsat chief executive Jean-François Fallacher said access to space was a “critical enabler” for a satellite operator and that the new launches would help secure the long-term future of the company’s LEO network.

The missions are also intended to support preparations for Eutelsat’s next LEO phase, including its role in Europe’s IRIS² secure-connectivity programme. Financial terms were not disclosed.