France has struck a major deal with Eutelsat to boost military satellite communications using OneWeb’s LEO constellation. The agreement supports urgent defense needs ahead of Europe’s IRIS2 system and could raise France’s stake in Eutelsat to 30 percent.
ESA and Hispasat have launched a joint effort to develop secure quantum key distribution via satellite and terrestrial networks. The Q-Design project involves major telecom and banking players, aiming to roll out a versatile QKD system by 2028.
The European Commission is set to approve a €2.8 billion merger between SES and Intelsat, aiming to strengthen Europe’s satellite independence. Though not a direct rival to Starlink, the combined entity will leverage GEO, MEO, and LEO assets to expand coverage and support EU initiatives like IRIS2.
Deutsche Telekom is investing in the EU’s IRIS2 satellite project to build a cutting-edge multi-orbital communication constellation. This initiative will enhance Europe’s digital infrastructure, reinforcing technological sovereignty with advanced IT, secure networks, and 5G.
Colt Technology Services, Honeywell, and Nokia are partnering to develop quantum-safe satellite networking. By using quantum key distribution from low earth orbit, they aim to secure global data transmission against quantum computing threats, overcoming the distance limits of fiber optics.
Telstra has launched a satellite text messaging service in partnership with Starlink, allowing users of select Samsung Galaxy S25 plans to send and receive texts via satellite when mobile coverage is unavailable. The service aims to improve connectivity in rural and remote areas across Australia.
Intelsat is expanding its satellite services in the Solomon Islands and India, improving rural connectivity and supporting broadcast networks. A new agreement with STCL brings better voice and data access to remote island communities, while India’s approval opens the door for expanded satellite coverage and content delivery using four geostationary satellites.
Five global tech leaders, led by Singapore University of Technology and Design, demonstrated a pioneering satellite-powered 5G network linking Singapore and Japan. This breakthrough proves the viability of space-based communication with terrestrial networks, paving the way for seamless global connectivity.
The UK Biomass satellite is a game-changer in satellite technology, poised to map Earth’s forests in 3D for the first time. With its innovative P-band radar, Biomass surpasses past limitations by penetrating clouds and foliage.
Chunghwa Telecom is partnering with Astranis to launch Taiwan’s first dedicated geostationary satellite, enhancing national connectivity and infrastructure resilience. Scheduled for deployment by 2025, the project is part of a larger satellite program and reflects Taiwan’s commitment to secure communication systems.
