Europe has taken a significant step toward boosting its communications power in space. The UK and France have decided to invest a total of €1.5 billion in Eutelsat, one of the continent’s largest satellite operators. This support is notable for its aim to strengthen Europe’s position against US-based SpaceX’s Starlink network.
Eutelsat to face Starlink rival
According to a statement released by Eutelsat, the UK government will provide an investment of €163.3 million in the company. This contribution, combined with the €750 million financing announced by France in June, significantly expands the company.
With the UK investment, the total support has reached €1.5 billion. France, with its funding, will become Eutelsat’s largest shareholder, while the UK will retain a 10.89 percent stake in the company.
UK Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle highlighted the increasing security threats to space, stating that resilient and uninterrupted satellite connectivity has become a critical element of Europe’s national security. The statement emphasized that space technologies have become not only scientific or commercial, but also strategic and defense-focused.
Eutelsat currently operates 34 conventional geostationary satellites and over 600 low-orbit satellites. This makes it the second-largest satellite fleet in the world after Starlink. With the support and investor interest, particularly from France, Eutelsat shares have gained 64 percent since the beginning of 2025.
This European investment marks a critical juncture not only for technological development but also for the continent’s digital sovereignty. With such support for space infrastructure, Europe continues to build its own alternative systems to the global dominance of US-based companies.
