Airbus will build Thuraya 4-NGS for Yahsat, based on the all-electric Airbus Eurostar Neo Platform. Photo: Airbus

Airbus Defence and Space selected L3Harris Technologies to build a space reflector antenna for Thuraya 4-NGS, a next-generation satellite which will provide mobile telecommunication services throughout the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Central Asia. Last week, Yahsat chose Airbus to build Thuraya 4-NGS. The reflector antenna will be manufactured and tested at L3Harris facilities in Palm Bay, Florida.

The Geostationary Orbit (GEO) satellite, owned and operated by Yahsat/Thuraya, will carry an L-band payload that aims to serve all customer segments including defense, government, and enterprise throughout multiple continents. The satellite, equipped with L3Harris technology, is scheduled for operation in 2024.

“This space reflector antenna program is a significant new win for L3Harris and complements our broader strategy of providing end-to-end communication solutions for commercial customers,” said Ed Zoiss, President, Space and Airborne Systems, L3Harris. “L3Harris will manufacture, test, deliver and support field activities for the 12-meter reflector antenna.”