FROM CARRYING the first ever live international TV broadcast to bringing pictures of Neil Armstrong walking on the Moon, Intelsat is a pioneer of the satellite market.

Founded as an intergovernmental organisation in 1964, the company was taken private in 2001. At the same time, it began investing in ground infrastructure and satellites to serve the media specifically, laying the foundations for the globalised network it operates today.

In 2018 Intelsat launched FlexExec, a fully managed connectivity solution designed specifically for business aviation users. It accesses Intelsat’s multi-layered Ku-band satellite fleet, including its Epic high-throughput satellite platform, to provide high-speed, low-latency coverage for bandwidth-heavy tasks, ideal for jets that fly internationally.

FlexExec also leans on the IntelsatOne ground infrastructure — a fibre network and strategically located teleport system — to support its satellite services and ensure continuous seamless connectivity.

Intelsat is set to be acquired by satellite provider SES for $3.1bn (€2.8bn), subject to regulatory clearance. This will offer a combined fleet of more than 100 GEO and 26 MEO satellites with more expected to be launched in 2026.

“The combination will create a stronger multi-orbit operator with greater coverage, improved resiliency, expanded suite of solutions, enhanced resources to profitably invest in innovation, and benefit from the collective talent, expertise, and track record of both companies,” read a joint statement in April 2024.