Avanti’s Hylas 2 satellite, also built by Orbital Sciences. Photo: Avanti

[Via Satellite 08-11-2014] Avanti has awarded contracts for the manufacture and launch of the Hylas 4 High Throughput Satellite (HTS). Orbital Sciences was selected to build the spacecraft on a GEOStar bus, and Arianespace was chosen for an early 2017 launch. With these deals, Avanti expects to save 15 to 20 percent of the $350 million that was budgeted for the construction, launch and insurance of the satellite.

The Hylas 4 satellite will support 66 fixed beams capable of delivering up to 28 GHz of capacity and four steerable beams. The fixed beams are designated to cover Africa and Europe, while the steerable beams could serve Africa or potentially Latin America. The satellite is expected to provide room for growth in existing markets, as well as coverage for new areas.