Since the start of its constellation project, Eutelsat has encountered several obstacles.
After initially entrusting satellite launches to Russia, the invasion of Ukraine in 2022 abruptly changed the situation. International sanctions led Roscosmos to refuse to collaborate with OneWeb, even withholding 36 satellites ready for launch. This rupture forced Eutelsat to look for alternatives. SpaceX, its direct competitor, has been mobilized to carry out certain launches, as has the Indian Space Research Organization. This dependence on third parties has complicated the progression of the constellation.
In 2023, OneWeb successfully sent its last satellites needed for global coverage into orbit. Unfortunately, the implementation of this coverage has been hampered by administrative delays in key countries such as India, Thailand and Turkey. These blockages, coupled with costs associated with delayed launches, have limited the reach of services to certain areas of America and Europe.
Informative message for OneWeb: the next leap year is 2028.
