French satellite operator Eutelsat Communications SA has appointed a new CEO as Europe intensifies efforts to build a regional alternative to Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service. The leadership shakeup comes at a critical time, with mounting geopolitical pressure and surging defense needs across the European Union.
Starting June 1, Jean-François Fallacher will take over as Chief Executive Officer, replacing Eva Berneke. Fallacher previously led Orange SA’s French operations and brings deep telecommunications experience to Eutelsat. The company said the leadership transition “fully aligns Eutelsat to the telecom ecosystem,” signaling a stronger focus on connectivity and strategic expansion.
New Leadership and Strategic Direction
Fallacher’s appointment reflects a shift toward integrating more traditional telecom expertise into Eutelsat’s satellite business. With satellite internet playing a growing role in national security and connectivity, especially in conflict zones like Ukraine, Eutelsat is positioning itself as a key European player.
Under Eva Berneke’s leadership since 2022, Eutelsat acquired OneWeb, giving the company access to a network of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites. This acquisition put Eutelsat on the map as a potential rival to Starlink, which currently dominates Ukraine’s satellite communications infrastructure. However, to scale up its presence in the region, Eutelsat still requires substantial state support—both financially and logistically.
Shares of Eutelsat surged more than sixfold in early March, fueled by investor optimism that the EU would back Eutelsat as a strategic alternative to Starlink. That enthusiasm later cooled as markets awaited confirmation of government funding or defense contracts. On Monday, the stock fell as much as 6.1% and traded down 0.3% at €3.99 as of 9:39 a.m. in Paris. Despite the dip, Eutelsat shares remain up 76% in 2025.
Challenges Ahead: Debt, Defense, and Deployment
The road ahead will be challenging for Eutelsat. To fulfill its ambition of becoming Europe’s satellite internet backbone, the company must overcome major financial hurdles. Nearly €2.4 billion ($2.7 billion) in debt matures within the next four years, requiring a clear funding strategy and possible state intervention.
At the same time, geopolitical tensions are pushing Europe to reduce dependence on U.S. military and technological support. Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine and growing uncertainty around NATO—especially under a potential second Trump presidency—have reignited calls for European defense autonomy. In this climate, the EU is ramping up military and communications infrastructure spending, and Eutelsat could benefit if it secures key defense contracts.
The future of NATO remains uncertain as Europe evaluates its security reliance on the U.S., particularly after decades of military outsourcing. As satellite technology becomes essential for both civilian and military operations, Eutelsat’s role in Europe’s strategic infrastructure could become more critical.
Fallacher’s telecom background may also help the company forge partnerships with European carriers and governments, aiding deployment across hard-to-reach or conflict-affected areas. However, competition with Starlink remains stiff. Musk’s service is already operational in many war zones and remote regions, backed by a vast network of satellites and U.S. government collaboration.
For now, Eutelsat’s transition under new leadership marks a pivotal moment. With rising pressure to deliver secure and independent satellite internet, Fallacher’s challenge will be steering the company through financial, political, and technological obstacles—all while proving Eutelsat can stand as a credible European alternative to Starlink.
