European satellite provider Eutelsat is positioning itself as an alternative to SpaceX's Starlink for providing critical internet connectivity in Ukraine, with plans for major expansion in the coming weeks.
The French company's OneWeb division has been quietly operating a satellite internet network in Ukraine for nearly a year, backed by German government funding. While currently serving less than 1,000 terminals compared to Starlink's 50,000, Eutelsat CEO Eva Berneke announced plans to dramatically scale up operations.
"We have the capability to deploy 5,000 to 10,000 additional terminals within weeks," Berneke stated at the company's Paris headquarters. The expansion's funding sources remain under discussion, with Germany and other potential backers in talks.
The timing of Eutelsat's growth plans coincides with increasing European interest in developing independent satellite capabilities. The company is currently engaged with the EU-backed SpaceRISE consortium to develop IRIS², a secure satellite constellation system.
European officials appear focused on establishing backup options for Ukraine's internet infrastructure. European Commission defence chief Andrius Kubilius referenced having "solutions in place" if alternatives to Starlink become necessary, though specific scenarios were not detailed.
Currently, SpaceX maintains its position as Ukraine's primary satellite internet provider, with its network largely funded by Poland and the United States. However, Eutelsat's expansion signals growing competition in the strategic satellite communications sector, potentially offering Ukraine more choice in critical infrastructure partners.
The move reflects broader European efforts to develop autonomous space capabilities while reducing reliance on single providers for essential communications infrastructure.