Bharti Space to Invest ₹313 Cr in Eutelsat’s Satellite Expansion

Bharti Enterprises’ space arm, Bharti Space Ltd, has committed an investment of ₹313 crore (approximately €31.4 million) in French satellite operator Eutelsat as part of the latter’s ambitious €1.35 billion capital raising initiative. The funds are earmarked for expanding satellite constellations and repaying debt, positioning Eutelsat as a major player in global space-based communications. With this move, France has also emerged as Eutelsat’s top shareholder, signaling Europe’s push toward a sovereign satellite infrastructure.

Why in News?

This development is significant due to The rising global competition in satellite internet, especially in India. Bharti’s strategic stake dilution and continued support, even as France becomes the largest shareholder in Eutelsat. Eutelsat’s plan to expand LEO (Low Earth Orbit) and GEO (Geostationary Orbit) satellites to strengthen European space independence. The €1 billion French military deal to reserve Eutelsat’s LEO capacity. Parallel developments such as Elon Musk’s Starlink entering the Indian market and Bharti’s cross-bet on multiple satellite technologies.

Objectives and Aim

• Support satellite expansion, especially LEO constellations, to boost global connectivity.
• Reduce Eutelsat’s existing debt burden and reinforce its financial stability.
• Build a European sovereign space network with both military and civilian satellite capabilities.
• Ensure Bharti’s continued presence in the evolving satellite internet ecosystem.

Fundraise Details

Total Capital Raise: €1.35 billion (₹11,250 crore approx.).

Structure

• Reserve Capital Increase: €716 million (₹6,865 crore).
• Rights Issue: €634 million (₹6,330 crore).
• Bharti’s Contribution: €31.4 million (₹313 crore).
• Other Key Investors: French Government, CMA CGM (shipping giant), Fonds Stratégique de Participations (FSP).
• Pricing: Reserve capital issued at €4 per share—32% premium over 30-day average.

Impact on Shareholding

Bharti’s Stake

• Before fundraise: 24%
• After fundraise: Estimated to drop to 18.7%
• French Government Stake: Will increase to 29.99%, making it the largest shareholder.

Strategic Significance

• Eutelsat aims to become Europe’s leading satellite operator, integrating 35 GEO and 600+ LEO satellites.

A 10-year €1 billion contract signed with France’s Ministry of Armed Forces under the Nexus Program to reserve LEO capacity.

Bharti’s dual alignment,

• Through Eutelsat-OneWeb, it retains a 21% stake.
• Partnering with Elon Musk’s Starlink for satellite internet in India.