Milsat Services GmbH, a company set up by ND Satcom and EADS Space Services, will supply a pair of secure military communication satellites, a ground network and communications services for the German Armed Forces, the companies announced July 5.

Under the SatcomBW Stage 2 contract, EADS Astrium will deliver a pair of communications satellite, while ND Satcom will provide ground stations and the telemetry, tracking and command network. Intelsat will provide commercial capacity for the system, while the German Aerospace Center (DLR) will operate the spacecraft, EADS said.

The program is designed to provide a secure information network for the German military and is due to begin operations in 2009.

EADS holds a 74.9 percent interest in Milsat Services, while ND Satcom owns the remaining 25.1 percent. ND Satcom valued its share of the contract at 180 million euros ($230.4 million).