Satellite operators expand LEO networks for military and commercial use

Telesat is expanding its Lightspeed low Earth orbit (LEO) broadband constellation by adding 69 satellites, bringing the total planned fleet to 225 spacecraft. The expansion includes an additional 27 satellites ordered from MDA Space, increasing the value of its contract with the Toronto-based manufacturer by $474 million. This project, part of the Enhanced Satellite Communications Project-Polar, aims to provide reliable military communication in the Arctic to support Canadian sovereignty and the Canadian Armed Forces.

Separately, Eutelsat Group reported a 69.5 percent surge in revenue from its OneWeb LEO constellation for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, reaching €297 million. The LEO segment now accounts for approximately 25 percent of Eutelsat’s total annual revenue. This growth is driven by commercial adoption in enterprise broadband, maritime operations, aviation connectivity, and government and defense solutions, including tactical networks for NATO members.