High-speed Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity is rapidly transforming Europe’s digital landscape, aiming to provide fast, low-latency internet access, especially in underserved and remote regions. Hughes Network Systems Ltd (Hughes Europe), a leader in managed network connectivity solutions, announces the availability of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite service. Using Eutelsat’s OneWeb high-speed, low-latency, LEO satellite broadband services with Hughes ground equipment, installation, and network management, enterprises across Europe will experience enhanced connectivity from European-based providers. High-Speed Low Earth Orbit Satellite Connectivity Europe

As an engineering partner, Hughes is developing gateway electronics and the core technology that powers every user terminal in the OneWeb system. Hughes has designed an electronically steerable flat-panel antenna (ESA) specifically for the OneWeb satellite service. Projects are underway in the manufacturing, construction, power generation, and retail sectors. Additionally, government agencies are reviewing the Hughes LEO service for critical infrastructure connectivity.

“Together with Eutelsat we are bringing reliable, high-quality connections to enterprise and government users across Europe,” said Christopher Britton, Managing Director at Hughes Europe. “LEO satellite connectivity with the Hughes ESA and the White glove services from Hughes Europe, offer a European based alternative for high-speed, low-latency coverage.”

Cyril Dujardin, President of the Connectivity Business Unit, Eutelsat Group, said, “We are pleased to expand on our longstanding partnership with Hughes to enable the delivery of our Eutelsat OneWeb services to European businesses. High-speed, low-latency connectivity is essential to support critical business functions, and we look forward to providing the connectivity needed to help businesses across Europe thrive and succeed.”

As industries and enterprises increasingly rely on fast and reliable internet access, the demand for high-performance satellite connectivity has never been greater. Hughes Europe will integrate Eutelsat’s OneWeb LEO technology into its existing broadband portfolio, enabling uninterrupted, high-quality connectivity in areas where traditional networks fall short, ensuring next-generation connectivity for mission-critical operations.

High-Speed Low Earth Orbit Satellite Connectivity Europe

Here’s an overview of the current developments, besides the above-mentioned Hughes and Eutelsat collaboration.

Key Initiatives and Partnerships

Eutelsat OneWeb

Eutelsat OneWeb operates a constellation of approximately 650 LEO satellites, delivering broadband services across Europe. The company focuses on enterprise and government clients, offering an alternative to SpaceX’s Starlink. In response to geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding reliance on non-European providers, Eutelsat has been instrumental in supplying connectivity to regions like Ukraine.

IRIS² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite)

The European Union is developing IRIS², a €10.6 billion satellite constellation comprising 264 LEO and 18 Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites. Scheduled for deployment by 2027, with services commencing in 2030, IRIS² seeks to bolster Europe’s digital sovereignty and provide secure communications for governmental and civilian use. ​

Advantages of LEO Satellite Connectivity

• Low Latency: LEO satellites orbit closer to Earth, resulting in latency as low as 40–125 milliseconds, suitable for real-time applications. ​

• Broad Coverage: LEO constellations can deliver high-speed internet to remote and rural areas where traditional infrastructure is lacking.​

• Cost-Effective Deployment: Studies indicate that LEO satellite broadband can be more economical than fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) in sparsely populated regions, potentially saving European governments up to €26 billion in subsidies. ​

In summary, Europe’s push towards high-speed LEO satellite connectivity represents a significant step in achieving digital autonomy and bridging the digital divide. While challenges remain, ongoing collaborations and investments indicate a promising trajectory for the continent’s satellite broadband capabilities.​

About Hughes Network Systems Limited

Hughes Europe, a subsidiary of Hughes Network Systems, LLC, an EchoStar company, is a leading provider of managed satellite and wireless communications solutions, serving a diverse range of industries across Europe. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Hughes Europe delivers secure communications anytime, anywhere.