A decision on whether to proceed to a more in-depth Phase 2 investigation is expected by June 12th 2025.
The UKs Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched a Phase 1 investigation into Luxembourg-based SESs proposed acquisition of rival satellite operator Intelsat Holdings, citing potential risks to competition in one or more UK markets.
The CMA is examining whether the deal, which would consolidate two major players in the global satellite communications sector, could result in a substantial lessening of competition. This initial inquiry could lead to further scrutiny if competition concerns are identified.
The investigation comes amid broader conversations about consolidation within the European space and satellite industries. Speaking at the Europa Forum in Brussels, European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius voiced support for mergers within the sector, emphasising the importance of building competitive “champions” on a global scale.
We should not be afraid of scaling up and consolidating companies to reach the size needed to compete internationally, Kubilius said, although he stopped short of commenting directly on the SES-Intelsat deal or the reported merger talks between Airbus and Thales Alenia.
Kubilius acknowledged the need to strike a balance between supporting large-scale industry leaders and ensuring room for innovation from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Theres a lot of new, agile, and dynamic industry emerging in the space and defence sectors. We must build champions while leaving space for startups, he added.
He also highlighted Europe’s struggle in space launch capabilities, calling it a deep crisis, and noted that the continent had fallen behind competitors like Elon Musks SpaceX. We lost the competition to Elon Musk and now we need to catch up, Kubilius stated, stressing the urgency of revitalizing Europes launch industry.
As SES and Intelsat await regulatory decisions, the CMAs investigation could become a key moment in shaping the trajectory of satellite sector consolidation within Europe and beyond.
