Alcatel Space received a contract from Thailand’s Shin Satellite Inc. for the construction of the Thaicom 5 communications satellite, Alcatel announced June 30.

Thaicom 5 will be based on Alcatel’s Spacebus platform and carry 14 Ku-band and 24 C-band transponders. The contract covers delivery of the satellite, launch and early orbit operations, and in-orbit testing.

Thaicom 5 will be located at 78.5 degrees East and will replace the Thaicom 1 and Thaicom 2 satellites, allowing Shin Satellite to expand its offerings over Thailand and neighboring countries.

Shin Satellite’s board approved the investment of up to $100 million for the project.