In the same week, investors rallied behind Eutelsat, sending itsshares soaringover 500%.
But what exactly is Eutelsat?
And could it realistically replace Starlink in Ukraine and beyond?
In 1983, Eutelsat became the first European provider ofsatellite TV.
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How do OneWebs satellites work?
Eutelsat currently has 653 OneWeb satellites orbiting the Earth, each circling about 1,200km above the surface.
Ground stations on Earth are connected to the internet and beamdatato satellites orbiting above.
Can Eutelsat replace Starlink in Ukraine?
Eutelsat told TNW that it offers the same coverage and latency capabilities as Starlink.
Currently, Eutelsat has around 2,000 user terminals on the ground in Ukraine.
Polandand the US, among others, have helped to fund Ukraines use of Starlink.
Similar support would likely be needed fora rapid rollout of OneWeb terminals, particularly given Eutelsats not-so-healthyfinancial concerns.
Then theres the tech itself.
OneWebs satellites are older and less advanced than Starlinks.
They lack inter-satellite laser link technology, which improves coverage.
They also have far fewer satellites in orbit than Starlink, which has around 7,000.
The bloc will also have to make some serious financial commitments.
Word from Poland this weekend provided positive news on that front.
There are also reports that a new Airbus-Leonardo-Thales Alenia Spacejoint venturecalled Project Bromo plans to challenge Starlinks global dominance.
Europes technological sovereignty will be a hot topic atTNW Conference, which takes place on June 19-20 in Amsterdam.
Tickets for the event arenow on sale.
Use the code TNWXMEDIA2025 at the check-out to get 30% off the price tag.
Story bySion Geschwindt
Sion is a freelance science and technology reporter, specialising in climate and energy.
