SES + Intelsat: the legacy of the past and the ambitions of the future in orbit

How the merger of two giants sets new rules in the satellite industry — and why SES is betting on meoSphere — a concise analytical overview

In July 2025, the merger of SES and Intelsat was finalized — a historic move that created a global satellite player with 120 spacecraft in GEO and MEO, along with strategic access to LEO networks. This is not just a consolidation of assets — it marks the beginning of a transformation of the business model.

Both brands brought distinct strengths: SES with its Astra networks, O3b, and multi-orbit expertise; Intelsat with its extensive GEO fleet, strong government contracts, spectrum rights, and ground infrastructure. Together they now hold a combined spectrum portfolio (C, Ku, Ka, military Ka/X/UHF) and eliminated duplication — significantly easing CapEx pressure. SES projects that most of the synergies — €2.4 billion — will be realized in the first years after the merger.