Company Overview: SES, headquartered in Luxembourg, is one of the world’s leading satellite operators, managing a fleet of over 70 satellites across geostationary (GEO) and medium Earth orbits (MEO). It is especially known for its O3b network, which delivers low-latency broadband to underserved regions, and for its hybrid GEO + MEO strategy that combines wide-area coverage with fiber-like connectivity. SES serves a diverse range of customers—including broadcasters, mobile operators, governments, maritime, aviation, and enterprises—offering services such as video distribution, direct-to-home broadcasting, mobility connectivity, and cloud-optimized satellite solutions. Recently, SES announced its purchase of Intelsat, bringing together two of the world’s largest satellite operators to create a global leader in multi-orbit communications and broadcasting.
Intelsat, based in McLean, Virginia, is the oldest and one of the largest commercial satellite operators, with a global fleet of more than 50 satellites in GEO. Founded in 1964 as an intergovernmental consortium and privatized in 2001, Intelsat has long been a backbone of global communications, supporting television broadcasting, in-flight connectivity, maritime broadband, enterprise networking, and secure government communications. While SES differentiates itself with its multi-orbit innovation, Intelsat leverages its extensive GEO infrastructure and deep legacy in global media distribution and connectivity. Together, they represent two of the most influential players in shaping satellite-powered communications worldwide.