OneWeb, the low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications company, announced its agreement with New Space India, a part of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), for its satellite launch program.
Terms of the agreement with New Space India are confidential.
The first launch with New Space India is anticipated in 2022 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota. The launches will add to OneWeb’s total in-orbit constellation of 428 satellites, 66 percent of the planned total fleet, to build a global network that will deliver high-speed, low-latency connectivity.
Sunil Bharti Mittal, OneWeb Executive Chairman, said: “This most recent agreement on launch plans adds considerable momentum to the development of OneWeb’s network, as we work together across the Space industry toward our common goal of connecting communities globally.”
Recently, OneWeb selected SpaceX to enable the company to resume satellite launches. OneWeb has already activated service with its network at the 50th parallel and above, as demand for the company’s broadband connectivity services continues to grow from multiple sectors and markets.
“We welcome the partnership between OneWeb and NewSpace India. It’s a historic development and this will surely pave the way for a greater participation of private space players, resulting a boost to Indian space economy,” AK Bhatt, Director General, Indian Space Association (ISpA).
