REGISTER NOW Following its merger with Eutelsat, the duo are planning to double down on their existing partnership, which includes a global distribution agreement they entered into back in March. And today, the two companies revealed that they have signed a new commercial partnership that addresses the “European and global cruise markets.” Ultimately, Eutelsat and OneWeb are touting the complementary nature of their respective products as the big opportunity here: Eutelsat’s GEO satellites, which are higher altitude and thus higher latency, are better suited for things like weather forecasts and TV broadcasts. And OneWeb’s constellation of lower-altitude satellites are better for critical communications that require low-latency data transfers. Combined, the companies argue that they will be better positioned to target a broader array of use cases across the B2B and B2C spheres. The companies’ joint press release issued today reads: The operations of Eutelsat and OneWeb are highly complementary. A clear roadmap has been designed to develop over time a complementary GEO/LEO service including a common platform, hybrid terminals and a fully mutualized network creating a one-stop shop solution for customers, providing them with a unique offering and a seamless user experience. What’s also notable about this deal is that it sees both the French and U.K. governments formally coming together as joint shareholders in the new combined entity, though it’s not clear how much stakes they will each retain in the new company, or whether they will have seats on the board. The proposal notes that the transaction will see OneWeb shares exchanged with new shares issued by Eutelsat, with Eutelsat owning 100% of OneWeb when the deal closes — with the exception of what is referred to as the “special share” that the U.K. government will retain in OneWeb. OneWeb will continue to trade under its existing brand and remain headquartered in the U.K., while Eutelsat will still operate from its HQ in France and remain listed on the Euronext stock exchange in Paris. Under the proposals, current Eutelsat CEO Eva Berneke would stay as CEO of the new combined company, while chairman Dominique D’Hinnin will also continue as head of the board. It’s not clear what role — if any — OneWeb CEO Neil Masterson would have at the new company. The transaction, if greenlighted by the usual regulatory bodies, is expected to close by the end of the first half of 2023 — so this potentially has another year or so until completion. Topics