A satellite with a Lockheed Martin A2100 bus. Photo: Lockheed Martin

[Via Satellite 03-18-2014] NewSat Limited has awarded Kratos Defense & Security Solutions with a contract to provide the satellite command and control system for the Jabiru 1 satellite. As Australia’s first commercial Ka-band satellite, Jabiru 1 is currently under construction and is expected to launch in 2015.

Jabiru 1 is a Lockheed Martin A2100 satellite that will be used to provide coverage over Southeast Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. The satellite’s ground system program will be based on Kratos’ Epoch IPS satellite fleet management system that has the ability to simultaneously control multiple satellites from one consolidated system.

“Kratos’ deep experience with LM A2100 satellites was a significant factor in our decision to select Epoch IPS,” said David Ball, CTO of NewSat. “Jabiru 1 is Australia’s first commercial Ka-band satellite and NewSat’s first satellite. Kratos’ ability to operate satellites from all major manufacturers is very important to NewSat as we grow the Jabiru fleet.”