Today’s telecom news includes announcements on Eutelsat, OneWeb, Starlink, Ethio telecom, Djibouti Telecom, Sudatel Group, Horizon Fiber, VodafoneThree, Nokia, among others.
Eutelsat Bets €1 Billion on OneWeb Expansion to Challenge Starlink
Eutelsat is planning a major expansion of its OneWeb low Earth orbit satellite network through 2034 after signing a €1 billion ($1.16 billion) agreement with Airbus for 229 additional satellites. The order follows a previous contract for 440 satellites, with deployment expected to begin in late 2026. OneWeb currently operates more than 600 satellites and focuses primarily on government, enterprise and telecom customers, rather than the consumer market dominated by SpaceX’s Starlink, which has more than 11,000 satellites. Eutelsat said the additional satellites will sustain OneWeb services while the European Union’s IRIS² constellation is developed. The company also plans Ariane missions in 2027 and 2028.
Horizon Fiber Project Targets Stronger Cross-Border Connectivity in East Africa
Ethio telecom, Djibouti Telecom and Sudatel Group have signed a tripartite agreement to implement the Horizon Fiber initiative, a major cross-border optical fiber project designed to strengthen digital connectivity across East and Northeast Africa. The project aims to establish high-capacity and resilient fiber infrastructure linking the participating markets while supporting broader regional digital integration. The agreement was signed in Djibouti and brings together the three operators to develop infrastructure capable of supporting growing demand for reliable broadband and international connectivity. Ethio telecom CEO Frehiwot Tamru described the partnership as a step toward building a shared digital future for the region. The initiative is expected to strengthen regional connectivity and create new opportunities for digital services.
VodafoneThree and Nokia Advance UK 5G Site Rollout
VodafoneThree and Nokia are making progress on the rollout of advanced 5G infrastructure across the United Kingdom as the operator continues integrating its network following the Vodafone and Three merger. The deployment involves upgrading sites with newer network equipment and capabilities to improve capacity, performance and coverage for customers. VodafoneThree is pursuing an £11 billion ($14.66 billion) investment program following completion of the merger, supporting broader network modernization and expansion. The operator has already been deploying upgraded 4G and 5G infrastructure, including consolidated sites that combine Vodafone and Three network assets. The latest rollout highlights the operator’s focus on strengthening its UK mobile network through advanced radio technology and accelerated site modernization.
