Orange has announced the launch of the Nuanua project, leveraging SES’s second-generation medium Earth orbit (MEO) O3b mPOWER system to upgrade the connectivity infrastructure of the Wallis and Futuna Islands.
The initiative, named after the Wallisian word for “rainbow,” will replace the existing satellite network with cutting-edge technology to deliver high-speed, reliable connectivity.
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Mitigating Disruption
Designed to complement the existing submarine cable, Nuanua aims to provide a more resilient and sustainable communication network for the archipelago’s nearly 12,000 residents. With only one submarine cable currently serving the territory, internet access remains vulnerable to disruptions. The advanced satellite solution will offer significantly improved speeds and reliability, ensuring continuous connectivity.
Jean-Louis Le Roux, President of Orange Wallis and Futuna, emphasized that the Nuanua project highlights the expertise of Orange’s teams in satellite technology, particularly in delivering secure and resilient connectivity solutions for their clients.
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Orange, through its subsidiary, Orange Wallis & Futuna, manages the international networks of Wallis and Futuna under a 1986 agreement with the French government. As part of this role, the company will oversee the deployment and operation of the Nuanua project. Co-financed by the European Union under the ‘Connecting Europe Facilities – Digital’ program, the initiative underscores Orange’s commitment to bridging the digital divide in remote territories. By enhancing digital infrastructure, the project is expected to drive economic and social development in the region.
Nadine Allen, Global Head of Enterprise & Cloud, SES, said, “We are delighted to partner with Orange on this important project for sustainable connectivity. This initiative will use the high-performance of SES’s O3b mPOWER to modernize Wallis and Futuna’s existing satellite network. With the system’s capacity to scale up, we are excited to assist in accelerating digital inclusion in the Pacific region.”
The project is set to be completed within six months and is expected to be operational by mid-2025. To enhance sustainability, a 170 m² solar panel installation will be added to optimize power supply and reduce Orange’s carbon footprint.