Thales Alenia Space has signed a contract with Russian satellite manufacturer NPO-PM to supply two repeater equipment sets for the Loutch-5A and Loutch-5B communications satellites ordered by the Russian space agency Roskosmos, Thales announced June 19.

The geostationary relay satellites will be positioned at 16° West and 95° East, respectively, to provide TV and data communications links between the International Space Station and the ground as well as control of LEO spacecraft during all life stages, including launchers, boosters. The satellites are scheduled for launch in 2009 and 2010, with  Loutch-5A to offer six S- and Ku-band channels, while Loutch 5B offers four S- and Ku-band channels.