Telecom Artel has leased four full Ku-band transponders from SES World Skies, the operator announced.
    Artel’s new capacity, provided by the Astra 3B satellite, set to launch early next year, will aim to provide the U.S. Department of Defense with broadband, IP voice, data and video solutions across a variety of regional operations.
    Artel said the capacity investment was driven to meet a growing U.S. government demand for end-to-end communications networks throughout Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
    “The rise in communication needs across some of the world’s remotest regions is driving demand for reliable and robust satellite capacity capable of delivering connectivity where it’s needed most,” said Andrew Ruszkowski, vice president of North America Sales for SES World Skies, in a statement.
    Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.