Airbus U.S. Purchases its 50% share of the Airbus OneWeb Satellites Joint Venture with Eutelsat

Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc. has concluded a deal with Eutelsat OneWeb, acquiring its 50% stake in the Airbus OneWeb Satellites (AOS) joint venture.

The strategic move positions Airbus as the sole owner of AOS and its satellite manufacturing facility located in Merritt Island, Florida.

The consolidation of ownership is expected to usher in a new era of operational efficiency and heightened competitiveness across commercial, institutional, and national security space sectors. Airbus anticipates that the streamlined structure will enhance its ability to cater to the evolving needs of its diverse customer base.

As part of its forward-looking strategy, Airbus U.S. Space & Defense recently reconfigured the Merritt Island factory to accommodate the Arrow450 production line. The company has also initiated an expansion project aimed at meeting the surging demand for small satellites from both commercial and government clients, thereby solidifying its presence in the dynamic space industry in Florida.

The Airbus OneWeb Satellites joint venture, established in 2016, has been a key player in satellite manufacturing. The venture built over 600 satellites at a rate of two per day, contributing to the deployment of the OneWeb first-generation constellation currently operational in orbit.

With this acquisition, Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc. is poised to capitalize on its enhanced capabilities, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, and continuing to shape the future of satellite technology.