French telecommunications group Orange has raised its full-year 2026 profit growth target after stronger performances in Africa, the Middle East, Poland and Spain helped offset sluggish growth in its home market.

The company now expects core profit growth of more than 4.5%, up from its previous target of more than 4%, following a stronger-than-expected third quarter. Group revenue rose 3.6% on a comparable basis to €12.19 billion, while earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation after leases increased 4.6% to €4.14 billion.

Africa and the Middle East were among the key growth drivers. Orange reported a 14.2% increase in revenue from the region during the third quarter, highlighting the importance of its international operations to its financial performance.

Revenue in Poland also grew by 7.9%, while Orange España recorded a 3.5% increase to €1.91 billion in its first quarter fully consolidated into the group's accounts. The Spanish business was renamed Orange España following the integration of MasOrange into the group's reporting structure.

The stronger results are expected to support Orange's plans to deliver returns to shareholders while pursuing its planned takeover of French telecoms operator SFR. However, limited growth in France means the company is increasingly relying on its other markets to sustain its financial momentum.

Orange Sees Satellites Complementing Mobile Networks

Alongside its earnings update, Orange reiterated that satellite connectivity would complement existing telecommunications infrastructure rather than replace traditional mobile networks.

Chief Executive Christel Heydemann told analysts that satellite services could expand coverage, improve network resilience and create additional revenue opportunities.

Orange, Deutsche Telekom, Telefónica and Vodafone recently agreed to explore a joint bid for future spectrum allocation for mobile satellite services in Europe. The initiative aims to meet customer demand, strengthen public communications networks and protect critical communications infrastructure.

The company also reported continued growth in its cybersecurity business. Orange Cyberdefense generated €1 billion in revenue during the first nine months of the year, representing a 12.2% increase from the same period in 2025. Its threat-detection platform is sold in nine European countries.

Operating cash flow rose 8.8% during the first nine months of 2026, providing further support for the group's investment and financial plans.

Orange's latest outlook underscores the growing role of its international businesses, particularly Africa and the Middle East, in supporting group-wide profitability as the company pursues expansion and new connectivity technologies.

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