With a fleet of 26 geostationary satellites reaching two thirds of the world population, Eutelsat is Europe’s leading satellite operator and the third largest globally.

Eutelsat’s in-orbit resources comprise capacity on 26 satellites positioned in geostationary orbit between 15° West and 75° East. From these premium orbital positions, Eutelsat’s satellite fleet is able to serve two thirds of the globe, from the East Coast of North and South America through to the Asia-Pacific coast.

Control and operating activities are managed by the Group’s Rambouillet teleport in France, which is also equipped for post-launch positioning and station-keeping manoeuvres.

In December 2008, Eutelsat launched HOT BIRD™ 9 and W2M, the first two satellites in a far-reaching investment programme designed to expand, renew and secure the resources of its in-orbit fleet. In February 2009, HOT BIRD™ 10 was launched. Before its final deployment at 13 degrees East, the satellite has been re-branded ATLANTIC BIRD™ 4A and is supporting Eutelsat's expansion at 7 degrees West, a key orbital position for the broadcasting of TV programmes to the Middle East. W2A was launched on April 3 and is located at 10 degrees East. Most recently, W7 was launched on November 24 and has joined W4 at 36 degrees East.

Management of the satellite fleet follows three guiding principles: anticipation, and the securing and expansion of our in-orbit resources. To do this, Eutelsat’s strategy is to anticipate the need to replace its operational satellites with bigger spacecraft. Satellites replaced before the end of their operational life become available to open up a new orbital position or consolidate an emerging position.

In parallel, the Group is pursuing a policy based on innovation aimed at extending satellite applications via the availability of new frequency bands or deployment on the ground.