[Satellite Today 03-13-09] EADS Astrium revenues increased by 21 percent to 4.2 billion euros ($5.3 billion), driven by contributions from all three of its business units and a focus on efficiency, according to the company’s 2008 financial report released March 11.
    EADS Astrium said the increase was mainly attributed to a sales increase in commercial telecom satellites, a ramp-up in Ariane 5 production and Paradigm services and the first full consolidation of Spot Image.
    EADS Astrium launched six Ariane 5 missions and delivered five satellites in 2008. Several acquisitions also boosted the company, with Astrium acquiring i-Mass, lifting its stake in Spot Image and taking over Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd.