International law firm Bird & Bird is helping OneWeb establish the terrestrial network for its ambitious plan to launch a constellation of low earth orbit (LEO) satellites that will cover the globe.

OneWeb's low earth orbit constellation, the first six satellites of which were launched from Kourou, French Guiana, on 27th February will enable the provision of broadband connectivity on an unprecedented scale. Launches on a larger scale are expected to continue later this year.

OneWeb is embarking on an exciting initiative to deliver high speed broadband and mobile services to all parts of the world, including rural, remote and underdeveloped areas. OneWeb has the potential to revolutionise the communications sector, and ensure that large parts of the world currently deprived of these services that are so vital to a 21st century economy can bridge the digital divide.

Bird & Bird’s role is to provide legal and regulatory advice on OneWeb's global terrestrial network. Led from the Sydney office by Partner Thomas Jones, Bird & Bird’s highly regarded international regulatory and satellite team will advise OneWeb on the arrangements across many countries.

Thomas Jones, Co-head of the firm's Satellite and Space Activities Group says: “As a firm that is deeply entrenched in technology and how it’s changing our digital world, we are delighted to be assisting OneWeb on the establishment of its global terrestrial network. OneWeb has the potential to genuinely change the way the world communicates, enabling a more connected global economy.”