Snapshot of a video of the dual launch of the Express AT1 and Express AT2 satellites, from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Photo: Roscosmos

[Via Satellite 06-02-2014] The Russian Satellite Communications Company (RSCC) began broadcasting services to the Far East region through the Express AT2 satellite, which was launched into orbit on March 16, 2014. ISS Reshetnev Company built the satellite in conjunction with Thales Alenia Space, based on the Express 1000K platform. The satellite carries 16 Ku-band transponders on-board and will have a service life of 15 years.

The second satellite built for RSCC by ISS Reshetnev, the Express AM6, was delivered to the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on May 28, 2014. The satellite is set to provide coverage throughout Africa and the Middle East and is scheduled for launch in July 2014.