SES Astra said the SES Group increased its shareholding in ND Satcom from ten percent to 21.1 percent. The transaction was realized through the conversion of an existing shareholder loan into equity and includes an option to take full control of ND Satcom. This option can be exercised in 2006 at the sole discretion of SES Astra.

“We look forward to exploring new business opportunities together with ND Satcom and to provide our support to ND Satcom as it continues to build its position as a prime system integrator for satellite network solutions,” Ferdinand Kayser, president and CEO of SES Astra, said in a prepared statement. “Enhancing our position in ND Satcom is a further step in our strategy to develop our portfolio of satellite service solutions provided to our customers in the media, enterprise and government sectors.”