Space Systems/Loral (SSL), a subsidiary of Richmond’s MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) has signed an agreement with Asia Satellite Telecommunications Company Limited (AsiaSat) to construct a high-power, multi-mission satellite.
The satellite, AsiaSat 9, which is expected to be launched in 2016, will be used for television broadcast, private networks and broadband services across the Asia-Pacific region.
SSL manufactures complex satellites and spacecraft systems, including the world’s first communications satellite launched in 1960. It has built more than 250 satellites and has provided batteries for the International Space Station.
AsiaSat, a regional satellite operator headquartered in Hong Kong, currently has four satellites that operate around the Asia Pacific, servicing over 710 million households. This is SSL’s fifth satellite contract with AsiaSat. Two other satellites, also built by SSL, are scheduled to be launched in the first half of 2014.
“We can depend on our trusted partner SSL to build the highly reliable satellites that have helped us earn a reputation for quality service and technical excellence,” said AsiaSat president and chief executive officer William Wade.
“We are very pleased that the AsiaSat 9 project is underway and once launched, it will greatly expand our ability to serve the Asia-Pacific region with higher power and multi-beam coverage.”
