Media Networks Latin America (MNLA), a wholly owned subsidiary of Telefonica, has signed a multi-year and multi-transponder capacity contract with Satelites Mexicanos (Satmex) to support its broadband data services throughout Latin America, the operator announced Sept. 20.

   MNLA will lease Ku-band capacity on the Satmex 5 satellite, which is located at the orbital position of 116.8 degrees West to provide services throughout the Americas.

   “Media Networks Latin America is the leader in providing wholesale video and data services throughout the region and its long-term commitment to Satmex serves as an endorsement of our satellites’ capabilities. Latin America is a highly attractive market for satellite communications and they are pleased that they will be able to extend their satellite services with the addition of Satmex 8 and are looking forward to work with MNLA in meeting the growing demand for satellite networks throughout the region,” Satmex said in a company statement.

   Satmex said it plans to launch the new satellite Satmex 8 sometime in the third quarter of 2012, after which MNLA will migrate its operations from Satmex 5 to the new Satmex 8. The operator expects to incur capital expenditures related to the construction of Satmex 8 of approximately $177.3 million in the 2011 fiscal year. The total cost for Satmex 8 is approximately $331.6 million.