Eutelsat and ViaSat have closed their partnering arrangement combining Eutelsat’s European broadband business with ViaSat’s broadband technology know-how and Internet Service Provider (ISP) business.

The two companies are creating a partnership that will expand Eutelsat’s current wholesale broadband business and launch a new consumer retail service in Europe, headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland.

The joint venture will consist of two businesses:

• Wholesale Services – Eutelsat is contributing its current European broadband business including the KA-SAT satellite to the newly formed entity, owned 51% by Eutelsat. ViaSat has acquired a 49% interest in the business for a consideration of €132.5 million.
• Retail Services –  will focus on offering retail broadband services in the European and Mediterranean regions. This business is owned 51% by ViaSat and 49% by Eutelsat.

Eutelsat and ViaSat have an existing decade-long relationship.

[Image courtesy: ViaSat]