Eutelsat has revealed that it is actively engaging with European governments to explore opportunities for bolstering satellite connectivity in Ukraine a move that could see the French operator emerge as a viable alternative to Elon Musk’s Starlink system. As the US contemplates potential measures that might curtail Ukraine’s access to Starlink, Eutelsat is positioning its technology to fill any resulting gap.
The company is considering a deployment that would leverage a combination of its satellite constellations: OneWeb satellites, operating at roughly 1,200 km altitude, alongside its geostationary assets at 35,000 km. This hybrid approach aims to enhance connectivity for critical Ukrainian missions and infrastructure, including supporting drones that have become a key element in Ukraine’s military strategy.
Eutelsat’s shares jumped as much as 123% before easing to a 70% gain, reflecting investor optimism that European leaders’ renewed commitment to Ukraine’s security will drive demand for the group’s satellite services. Despite trading below pre-acquisition levels for OneWeb, the stock rally underscores Eutelsat’s growing importance in the region.
The discussions come as the EU weighs alternatives to Starlink under its emerging GovSatCom system a secure network intended for government services, including crisis management and surveillance which is not expected to be operational until next year, though efforts may be accelerated.
While Eutelsat has been supplying services to Ukraine via a German distributor, its technology is generally considered less advanced than Starlink’s extensive network of over 7,000 satellites. However, Eutelsat’s solutions, designed for business and government use, offer a strategic option for complementing existing military communications in Ukraine.
