Saft Li-ion battery. Photo: Saft

[Via Satellite 02-21-2014] Boeing has awarded Saft with five contracts to build Li-ion batteries for four of the company’s current GEO communication satellite programs. These new contracts make a total of 11 contracts Boeing holds with Saft, representing more than $20 million in satellite battery sales.

There are currently 75 satellites in orbit using the company’s Li-ion technology, which offers lower mass and small volume to satellites. Its newest batteries are expected to be delivered between mid-2014 to 2015.

“Our long-term agreement and relationship with Boeing has solidified over the years and allows both Saft and Boeing the advantage not only of being business partners, but also partners in technology, always striving for the most competitive offering specific to each satellite. These five contracts, and several others already in production, represent a significant manufacturing base for our satellite battery business,” said Annie Sennet, general manager of Saft’s Space & Defense Division.