EUTELSAT QUANTUM will usher in a new era of commercial satellite service by enabling users in government, mobility and data markets to actively define and shape the performance and reach they need from a satellite. Using a software-based design, it will be the first universal satellite to repeatedly adjust to business requirements and be able to operate in any geographic region in the world.

EUTELSAT QUANTUM's in-orbit reprogrammable features will set a new standard in flexibility and will principally address markets that are highly changeable and mobile:

- Communications on the move: dynamic beam shaping and vessel-tracking capabilities can be optimised for power and throughput as required by maritime, aeronautical and land-based transportation.

- Data networks: bespoke design of wide-area networks and dynamic traffic shaping, responding to demand where and when needed.

- Government  users: rapid response for public protection and disaster recovery as well as secure control using the latest encryption technology.

The development of the core technologies integrated into EUTELSAT QUANTUM will be supported by ESA and the UK Space Agency within the framework of a Public-Private Partnership signed by ESA, Eutelsat and Airbus Defence and Space.

Eutelsat has also signed the contract for the first satellite with Airbus Defence and Space (ADS) in the UK using a new platform to be built by its affiliate, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. (SSTL).

The first satellite will be delivered in 2019.