OneWeb Ltd will build, launch and operate the world’s largest ever satellite network. Virgin Galactic’s LauncherOne program will help make it possible with frequent satellite launches at a much lower cost and with greater reliability. The Virgin Group and Qualcomm Incorporated are the principle investors in OneWeb Ltd and Richard Branson was looking forward to sitting alongside OneWeb Ltd Founder Greg Wyler and Qualcomm Chairman Dr Paul Jacobs on the company’s board.
The goal of the venture is to deliver fast internet service in rural and emerging markets, as well as on Virgin Atlantic airlines in cooperation with mobile operators. According to Rolfe Winkler, “It will cost $1.5 billion to $2 billion to launch the service.” Richard Branson and Paul Jacobs will be on the Board of OneWeb Ltd, formerly called WorldVu Satellites. Branson said, “He was excited to use Virgin Galactic’s LauncherOne to help make connectivity possible around the world with its low cost, reliable, and frequent launches.” No launch date was provided.
(Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo crashed during a test flight in America’s Mojave Desert on Oct. 31, 2014 killing the test pilot).