The UK-based satellite internet company OneWeb signed a contract with the California-based space company after abandoning the Russian-made Soyuz for an upcoming launch, a direct consequence over Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
A press release states that the first launch with SpaceX will add to OneWeb's total in-orbit constellation, which currently stands at
Neil Masterson, CEO of OneWeb, said, "We thank SpaceX for their support, which reflects our shared vision for the boundless potential of space."
While exact details and terms of the agreement are still under wraps, the news is representative of the international space community's greater shift away from relying on Russian-made rockets.
OneWeb decided to cancel six upcoming launches using Russian Soyuz rockets.
The move followed unusual comments made by the Russia's space chief, who demanded OneWeb to provide several guarantees the broadband satellites will not be used for military purposes.
The flags of Britain, American, and Japanese were covered up by the space agency of the country.
OneWeb isn't the only entity that uses Russian rockets. NASA is looking at ways to continue operations on the International Space Station without Russia.
The European Space Agency decided last week to suspend the launch of the rover because it was going to use a Russian-made rocket.
It's not hard to imagine other space companies following suit, as the international cold shoulder towards Russia on terra firma looks more and more to extend well beyond Earth's atmosphere.
OneWeb reaches a launch deal.
NASA explained what would happen if Russia abandoned the space station.
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