[09-11-07 – Satellite Today]  Arianespace has won a new deal to launch four satellites for a key European space program, the company announced September 11. It has signed a deal with Astrium to launch four satellites of the space segment of the ELISA (ELectronic Intelligence by SAtellite) demonstrator. ELISA satellites will use radar transmitters to map the entire globe, with precise feature definition. They are a first step towards the future ROEM electromagnetic reconnaissance program.

Astrium is lead manager for the program, working with co-contractor Thales for French Ministry of Defense procurement agency DGA. Astrium is prime contractor for the demonstration program, which comprises four satellites, each weighing about 135 kg. The satellites are built on a Myriade platform designed by French space agency CNES.