[Satellite TODAY 07-16-10] Eutelsat Communications and IctQatar, representing the state of Qatar, selected Space Systems/Loral (SS/L) to build a high-performance satellite that the two companies will jointly own and operate at 25.5 degrees East, Eutelsat announced July 15.
    The spacecraft, expected to enter service in early 2013, will be based on SS/L’s 1300 satellite bus and provide Ku- and Ka-band coverage across the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia regions. The satellite will be a follow-on from Eutelsat’s Eurobird 2 satellite, also located at 25.5 degrees East.
    The selection of SS/L as prime contractor marks the next step forward in a partnership agreement signed by Eutelsat and IctQatar in May.
    “The powerful new spacecraft delivered by SS/L will equip Eutelsat with the continuity we need at the 25.5 degrees East position, which is already a pillar for video broadcasting in the Middle East and North Africa regions, and usher in new business opportunities for us in the Ka-band,” Eutelsat CEO Michel de Rosen said in a statement.
    Financial details of the contract were not disclosed.

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