[Satellite TODAY Insider 03-08-11] Sea Launch has entered into a framework agreement with SES to provide the satellite operator with detailed technical information regarding its launch vehicle system on a regular basis. In turn, SES has agreed to consider Sea Launch as an SES-recognized provider for future launch missions based on the success of upcoming launch missions already on the Sea Launch manifest.
    While the deal could see SES satellites once again placed into orbit by Sea Launch vehicles, a firm launch contract is still a long way off, SES Senior Vice President of Planning and Procurement Michele Franci told Satellite TODAY Insider. "SES would probably wait for their successful return to flight. I would say that we could consider a launch in the 2014-2015 time frame, but it’s very speculative at this stage," she said.
    SES has expressed interest to have several U.S. launch options, particularly in the heavy lift market. Franci said that the return of Sea Launch is good news for the industry, and that the operator wants to use the agreement to express its favor in Sea Launch’s re-organization and to prepare possible future launch agreements.
    "With ILS and Arianespace we have actual launch agreements for specific satellite launches. In Sea Launch’s case, it’s a prospective action to allow us to become comfortable again with their product and operations and envisage later going towards a firm launch contract," Franci said.
    SES has been wary of a relationship with Sea Launch since a January 2007 launch failure destroyed the NSS-8 satellite. Later in 2007, SES announced a multi-year deal with Arianespace and ILS covering the majority of its satellite launch requirements between 2009 and 2013. The multi-launch agreements were designed to ensure that each SES satellite will have a primary as well as a back-up launch vehicle, each with two launch slots, aimed to provide SES with planning security and flexibility for the company’s launch schedule during this period.
    But, Franci said SES is now ready to move on and possibly revive its business with Sea Launch. "It is important to allow for increased competition and resilience in case of launch failure or long delays with one or the other operator."

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