SES is the world's second-largest telecommunications satellite operator by revenue and operates a fleet of more than 55 satellites able to reach 99% of the World's population. In April 2024, SES announced the acquisition of satellite services provider Intelsat to create a more competitive multi-orbit satellite operator, which was cleared by the UK Competition and Markets Authority in May 2025, the European Commission in June 2025, and the US Federal Communications Commission in July 2025.
Cyborg Score Rationale
SES completed the transformative acquisition of Intelsat, gaining regulatory clearance from UK, EU, and US authorities by mid-2025. The company operates a dual GEO-MEO constellation and leads European sovereign connectivity initiatives. Integration execution risk and competitive pressures from new space entrants present challenges.
O3b mPOWER constellation expansion in progress with 8 satellites now operational
Leading European IRIS2 sovereign connectivity consortium since December 2024 with commitment to develop and operate 18 MEO satellites for pole-to-pole coverage
Global reach of 99% world population with 6,200+ TV channels and 300 million TV homes
Named Competitors
Intelsat — GEO satellite operator
Starlink — LEO broadband constellation
Kuiper — LEO broadband constellation
Viasat — Broadband and satellite services
Recent Developments
(December 2024) O3b mPOWER satellites 7-8 launched and operational
(July 2025) US FCC approved Intelsat acquisition
(June 2025) European Commission approved Intelsat merger
(May 2025) UK Competition and Markets Authority cleared Intelsat acquisition
(December 2024) SES leads IRIS2 European sovereign connectivity consortium
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