OneWeb and NewSpace India Limited, financed by a Bharti group, have entered into an agreement that will help ensure OneWeb''s satellite launch program is complete, according to a statement on Thursday.
The first satellite launch with NewSpace India is expected to begin at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in 2022. The launches will increase the total in-orbit constellation of 428 satellites, including 66 percent of the planned total fleet. OneWeb, in its statement, said it is continuing to develop its satellite constellation network and delivering industry-grade secure connectivity.
"This is yet another historic day for collaboration in space, owing to NewSpace India''s shared ambition and vision. "This most recent agreement on launch plans adds significant momentum to OneWeb''s network''s development, as we collaborate across the space industry towards our shared goal of connecting communities globally," Sunil Bharti Mittal, OneWeb''s executive chairman.
This launch agreement was signed in March 2022 by OneWeb and SpaceX, which would allow the company to resume satellite launches.
"OneWeb has already activated its network at the 50th parallel and above, as demand for the company''s broadband connectivity services continues to rise from multiple sectors and markets," the company said.
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The terms of the contract with NewSpace India were not disclosed.