Hellas-sat’s HS 2 coverage. Photo: Hellas-Sat

[Via Satellite 03-20-2014] Arabsat has released a request for proposal (RFP) for the procurement of four new satellites: the HS3, HS4, ARB6E and ARB6A, set to launch in 2016 and 2017. The satellites will be positioned at three different orbital locations covering Middle-Eastern, African, Asian and European markets with high power DTH payload in Ku-band and Ka spot beam capacities.

“The RFP for Arabsat’s sixth generation satellites reflects the company’s views on the exciting growth opportunities ahead of us and our commitment to capitalize on these opportunities,” said Arabsat CEO Khalid Balkheyour.

The HS3 and HS4 satellites are likely to replace Hellas-Sat’s current HS2 at 39 degrees east with additional capacities in Ku- and Ka-band. HS4 is also expected to provide Ku-band capacity over Europe and the Mediterranean.

ARB6E and ARB6A will have payload capacities in Ku- and Ka-band, will provide in-orbit backup capacity to Arabsat’s customers, and will serve the increase in market demand for satellite capacity and services throughout the region.