Managing the space program services for the EchoStar 8, EchoStar Satellite Services plans to manage construction, launch vehicle procurement and integration, test the satellite in-orbit and delivery. After launch of the EchoStar 8, Echostar plans to provide spacecraft telemetry, tracking and control services.

      “The Space Systems/Loral design for EchoStar 8 provides unique flexibility that will help us to continue delivering high quality programming and technology to our customers,” Dish Network President and CEO Joe Clayton said in a statement. “Space Systems/Loral and EchoStar have the experience and capability to understand our business objectives and then to work with us to design the best satellite for the mission.”

      EchoStar 8 was designed by Space Systems/Loral based on the SS/L 1300 satellite bus, for advanced television services such as high definition. Dish Network aims to utilize EchoStar 8 to expand its existing fleet and deliver the highest level of ongoing service.