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Orange has struck a multi-year deal with Eutelsat Group to harness the Eutelsat OneWeb low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, enabling it to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet services to enterprise and government customers with a strong focus on underserved regions across Africa and the Middle East.
The partnership will allow Orange to expand its satellite services portfolio by integrating LEO-based solutions that offer reliable, secure, and sovereign digital connectivity even in areas beyond the reach of traditional infrastructure. The deal also supports global mobile backhauling and ensures business continuity in remote or high-risk environments.
“It is of strategic importance for Orange to invest in the unique LEO European solution that provides best in class, resilient, tailored and sovereign digital connectivity services to serve our customers wherever they are located,” said Jean Louis Le Roux, EVP of Orange international networks. “The partnership with Eutelsat for OneWeb services is of vital importance to support their digital transformation.”
By Ruvarashe Gora
By combining the reach of OneWeb’s satellite network with its own terrestrial infrastructure, Orange aims to offer seamless service continuity and heightened security for critical enterprise functions. The move forms part of the company’s wider digital inclusion strategy, which seeks to empower businesses and public institutions in hard-to-connect environments.
Cyril Dujardin, president of Eutelsat’s connectivity business unit, said the collaboration reinforces the growing role of LEO satellites in next-generation telecom networks. “LEO-enabled services are becoming an integral technology for global telco operators,” he said. “We’re delighted to deepen our relationship with Orange and support its ambitious digital inclusion agenda.”
The deal arrives at a time when Africa and the Middle East are accelerating efforts to close connectivity gaps, particularly in rural and underserved areas. As more governments and businesses turn to digital solutions, LEO satellite technology is emerging as a vital link to foster inclusion, boost economic resilience, and deliver essential services in challenging terrains.
Orange said the investment also aligns with its commitment to European-led infrastructure and digital sovereignty, positioning satellite connectivity as a foundation for long-term growth and transformation in the regions it serves.
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