[Satellite TODAY 10-13-11] Inmarsat has hired global insurance broker Willis Group Holdings to act as its risk management advisor and placing broker for its new generation of satellites following a detailed review and competitive tender, the MSS satellite operator announced Oct. 12.

   The Willis Group agreement covers the launch and in-orbit operation of Inmarsat’s upcoming Global Xpress broadband satellite network and the additional launch of the Alphasat satellite. The appointment also includes responsibility for Inmarsat’s current in-orbit fleet.

   Global Xpress, which will be based on Boeing 702 type satellites, aims to deliver mobile broadband to customers at speeds of up to 50Mbps on devices as small as 60 centimeters. Alphasat is the first launch of The European Space Agency’s newly developed Alphabus communications satellite platform.

   The operator said that the Willis Group would be, “charged with creating and implementing a risk mitigation strategy for Inmarsat’s suite of technology that can be effectively valued by the insurance community. The role requires a multi-disciplined approach, bringing together expertise in engineering, risk management and technical analysis,” the operator said in a statement.

   Inmarsat selected the Willis Group as its insurance broker at the beginning of 2010 for all of its non-space policies. “This is the result of a tremendous all round performance and is the clearest possible illustration of the strength and depth of the Willis team. To be at the forefront of one of the most dynamic and exciting satellite projects in the world is a great honor,” Willis Inspace CEO Roger Bathurst said in a statement.