Eutelsat and Intelsat have signed a long-term agreement to jointly operate at the 48 degrees East orbital slot.
Both operators have certain orbital rights to that position. Eutelsat has already built its ‘Quantum’ satellite, which will be positioned at the location by the end of this year.
The 48 degrees East location is considered ideal for covering the MENA region and also providing secure communications for military and governmental customers active in the area.
Under the agreement, the capacity on Eutelsat Quantum will be distributed by Eutelsat and its subsidiary, Eutelsat Americas Corp, and Intelsat and its subsidiary, Intelsat General Communications LLC (IGC), thereby maximizing the commercial potential of the satellite and creating conditions for the fastest possible ramp-up of the satellite.
A joint-statement says that ‘Quantum’ is a full expansion satellite providing premium capacity with unprecedented flexibility features. Its ground-breaking software-based design enables users to actively define and shape performance and reach to meet their specific requirements. The 48° East position, with its extensive coverage, notably of the MENA region, is ideally placed to address, among others, the unique needs of government users.
Executive Comments
IGC Regional VP Rick Henry further commented, “Our collaboration with Eutelsat brings together the best minds in the industry to quickly meet the unique needs of our government customers through an innovative operating model and satellite deployment. This type of industry collaboration is truly a ‘win-win’ for everyone, and we look forward to a productive, long-term partnership with Eutelsat at 48° East.”
David Bair, CEO/President of Eutelsat America Corp, added, “We are delighted to partner with Intelsat to optimise the commercial potential of the assets represented by the 48° East position and the innovative features of Eutelsat Quantum. This ground-breaking satellite has already attracted significant interest from potential Government customers, and we are also excited to team with industry leading systems integrators to provide this unique capability as part of a high value solution.”
Eutelsat will unveil its latest financial results on July 31, where it is likely that more detail will emerge.
Article authored by journalist Chris Forrester
for the Advanced Television infosite.