[Satellite Today – 5-2-08] The Russian Satellite Communications Co. (RSCC) has received the payloads for the Express-AM44 and Express-MD1 satellites, the organization announced.
    The Express-AM44 payload was delivered to Information Satellite Systems – Reshetnev Company (formerly NPO PM) for integration with the platform. The satellite, being manufactured in cooperation with Thales Alenia Space, will carry 10 C-band, 16 Ku-band and L-band transponder.
    Khrunichev Space Center is completing the Express-MD1 satellite, also in cooperation with Thales. The satellite will be equipped with 8 C-band and an L-band transponder.
    The launch, the first dual launch for RSCC, is scheduled for August from Baikonur Space Center.