Telesat, one of the world’s largest satellite operators, and SpaceX, a leading aerospace company, have entered into a multi-launch agreement to deliver the Telesat Lightspeed constellation to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Under this agreement, Telesat has contracted 14 launches on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, which is known for its reliability and reusability. Each launch will carry up to 18 Telesat Lightspeed satellites to LEO.

The launch campaign is scheduled to begin in 2026 and will make use of SpaceX’s high launch cadence to quickly deploy the satellites. This will enable Telesat to start providing global service by 2027. The launches will take place at SpaceX’s launch facilities in California and Florida.

The Telesat Lightspeed network is designed to meet the connectivity needs of enterprise and government users. It will offer multi-Gbps data links and highly secure, resilient, low-latency broadband connectivity worldwide. Telesat has already signed MDA as the prime satellite manufacturer and has all the necessary launch contracts in place for the global deployment of the constellation.

Telesat’s President and CEO, Dan Goldberg, expressed his confidence in SpaceX’s ability to support the Telesat Lightspeed program, noting their track record of reliability and high launch cadence. SpaceX President and COO, Gwynne Shotwell, stated that they are proud to launch and deploy the Telesat Lightspeed constellation, as it will expand connectivity capabilities for customers around the world.

Telesat is known for its engineering excellence, reliability, and customer service. The company works closely with its customers to provide critical connectivity solutions that address complex communication challenges. Telesat Lightspeed, the company’s LEO satellite network, will be optimized to meet the requirements of telecom, government, maritime, and aeronautical customers. It will offer affordable, high-capacity links with fibre-like speeds.

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