[Satellite TODAY 01-20-12] SkyVision Global Networks has expanded its C-band capacity lease contract with Measat Satellite Systems for AfricaSat-1 satellite coverage across the African region, the operator announced Jan. 19.

   AfricaSat-1 is located at the 46 degrees East orbital slot, which Measat plans to enhance with its AfricaSat-1a spacecraft, set to launch in the fourth quarter of this year.

SkyVision said the multi-transponder agreement would provide the capacity needed to support its tier-one Internet connectivity solutions to ISPs, enterprises, telcos and mobile operators in the region.

   “Extending existing contracts with leading satellite suppliers is part of our strategy to offer reliable coverage over vast geographies. I am confident that SkyVision’s customers will benefit from the competitive edge our satellite infrastructure is offering,” SkyVision CEO Doron Ben Sira said in a statement.