Chunghwa Telecom, a Taiwanese telecommunications company, has entered into an exclusive multi-million-dollar agreement with Eutelsat OneWeb to offer low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite services in Taiwan. Eutelsat OneWeb’s LEO satellite network will enhance Chunghwa Telecom’s communication services by providing additional space-based connectivity.

By integrating Eutelsat OneWeb’s services, Chunghwa Telecom aims to strengthen its suite of communication offerings and provide greater resiliency. These satellite services will complement the company’s existing terrestrial fixed and mobile networks, submarine cables, and microwave communication services, which are currently provided to government and business customers.

The agreement was signed by Alex Chien, Executive Vice President of Chunghwa Telecom, during a delegation visit to Eutelsat OneWeb’s London offices. Taiwan heavily relies on submarine cables for external connectivity, with satellite services serving as a secondary option. The addition of Eutelsat OneWeb’s LEO satellite service alongside Chunghwa Telecom’s Geostationary Orbit (GEO) satellite service marks the first step towards establishing a comprehensive multi-orbit satellite service portfolio.

Eutelsat OneWeb’s LEO satellite constellation consists of over 600 satellites. As part of the collaboration, Chunghwa Telecom plans to establish a satellite service terminal testing center in Taiwan with Eutelsat OneWeb. This center will provide technical expertise and integrate domestic and international satellite service resources.

In addition, Chunghwa Telecom will work together with government satellite research institutions, academic units, and satellite industry vendors to promote the development of the domestic satellite industry in Taiwan.

The partnership between Chunghwa Telecom and Eutelsat OneWeb highlights the growing demand for satellite services and the commitment to delivering robust and resilient connectivity.