[Satellite TODAY 12-12-11] Australian satellite company NewSat has contracted Arianespace to launch its Jabiru-1 satellite in the second half of 2014, the companies confirmed Dec. 9.
Once launched, Jabiru-1’s high-powered Ka-band payload will aim to deliver high-bandwidth communication services to government and enterprise markets across Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Somalia and India.
The deal with Arianespace follows the satellite’s commission to Lockheed Martin on Dec. 8. NewSat is being advised on the Jabiru-1 project by ArgoSat Advisors.
“Arianespace is very proud of NewSat’s decision for Jabiru-1. NewSat is a well established teleport operator, providing world-class satellite services around the world. Over recent times we have watched with interest as NewSat has grown and we look forward to the opportunity to launch many more of their satellites,” Arianespace CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall said in a statement.
Financial details of the contracts were not disclosed, however, NewSat confirmed that it would call on the U.S. Ex-Im Bank and Coface to provide financing for the project.
