Orange And Telesat Join Forces To Make Internet Access Truly Global

Orange is expanding its satellite services through a new partnership with Telesat. The deal aims to bring faster, more reliable internet to remote and underserved regions. The telecom giant is integrating Telesat’s Lightspeed low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites into its network. This will provide an alternative for areas where traditional broadband doesn’t cut it.

For businesses, telecom providers, and industries operating in challenging locations, this deal could mean better access to high-speed, low-latency connectivity. Notably, for it, they will not need any costly ground infrastructure.

France To Host A Key Ground Station

A major part of the agreement involves a Telesat Lightspeed Landing Station at Orange’s teleport in Bercenay-en-Othe, France. This facility will act as a bridge between Telesat’s satellites and Orange’s ground network, ensuring a direct connection to Paris via Orange’s International Private Line (IPL).

Orange already runs 26 ground stations across the world, playing a crucial role in global satellite communications. The new addition strengthens its ability to deliver seamless internet access across multiple regions, particularly where traditional networks struggle.

What This Means For Businesses And Telecom Operators

Apparently, for businesses working in remote areas, whether in energy, maritime, emergency response, or telecommunications, staying connected can be a challenge. This partnership gives Orange the ability to offer Telesat’s Lightspeed satellite service to its business customers, providing a flexible, secure alternative to traditional broadband.

Emmanuel Rochas, CEO of Orange Wholesale International, called the deal a major step forward. “I’m greatly honoured that Telesat has chosen Orange’s Bercenay-en-Othe teleport as the first European gateway for their Telesat Lightspeed network. More than that, I’m excited by the new partnership that we’re entering into, which says much about the expertise of Orange Wholesale as a space network operator and our capacity to offer world-class ground infrastructure for the most advanced satellite constellations,” he said.

Security And Flexibility At The Core Of The Network

Beyond speed and coverage, security is a big part of the Telesat Lightspeed network. A zero-trust security model ensures that data remains protected at every stage. Notably, this is especially important for industries that deal with sensitive communications and critical operations.

Another key advantage? Real-time bandwidth adjustments. Instead of relying on fixed capacity, Orange can adapt network usage as needed, shifting bandwidth to high-demand areas without waiting for manual changes.

Glenn Katz, Chief Commercial Officer at Telesat, said the partnership is about making high-performance connectivity available where it’s needed most: “This strategic partnership highlights our commitment to delivering resilient connectivity solutions through our advanced, fully integrated space and terrestrial infrastructure. We are honoured that Telesat Lightspeed will help improve connectivity in remote areas for Orange’s customers in Europe, Africa, and other locations throughout the world.”

Bringing Reliable Internet To More People

This collaboration is part of a bigger push to close the connectivity gap. While demand for fast, stable internet is higher than ever, and satellite technology is helping to fill the gaps that fibre and mobile networks can’t reach.

By combining Orange’s decades of experience in telecommunications with Telesat’s advanced satellite expertise, the two companies are working to expand global internet access — one orbit at a time.