Liftoff occurred Dec. 3 at 20:44 GMT/UTC. Astrium built the Eutelsat 70B satellite with four regional beams connected to 48 Ku-band transponders located on a single platform, aiming to more than double current capacity at 70.5 degrees East for data and government services, broadband access, GSM backhauling and professional video exchanges.

      "We are delighted to announce that Eutelsat 70B is on its way to 70.5 degrees East and thank Sea Launch, Energia Logistics and RSC Energia for this flawless launch,” Eutelsat CEO Michel de Rosen said in a statement. “With a footprint connecting Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia, Eutelsat 70B will be a powerful asset to our in-orbit resources. Its reach into Asia will also be a strong complement to the Eutelsat 172A satellite integrated into our fleet in September following the acquisition of this satellite from GE Capital."

      Eutelsat 70B will replace the Eutelsat 70A satellite, which will be redeployed to another location to continue commercial service.