Thales Alenia Space Wins Nilesat-201 Satellite Contract

(Cannes, June 3, 2008) -- Thales Alenia Space today announced the signature of a contract with Nilesat, the Egyptian satellite company, to provide the Nilesat-201 broadcasting communication satellite and associated services and ground stations.

As prime contractor, Thales Alenia Space will be in charge of the design, manufacturing, test and in-orbit acceptance of the satellite. In addition, Thales Alenia Space will provide satellite and mission control system for the Nilesat stations in both Cairo and Alexandria.

Nilesat-201 will enable to provide digital Direct to the Home (DTH) TV and radio broadcasting services and high-speed data transmission services over North Africa, Middle East and Gulf area, starting in February 2010.

Based on a Spacebus 4000B2 platform, Nilesat-201 will carry Ku and Ka-band transponders and will be located at 7 degree West. With a lifetime of more than 15 years, the satellite will have a launch mass of 3.2 tons and will deliver 5.7 kW of payload power end of life.
Nilesat-201 will carry 24 BSS Ku-band transponders over North Africa and Middle East, plus 4 Ka-Band channels over North Africa and the Gulf region.

Mr.Amin Basyouni, CEO of Nilesat added: "Nilesat 201 will contribute into the boost development in the dynamic broadcasting markets in the Middle East and North Africa, which is represented by the currently existing 435 TV channels delivered by Nilesat satellites at 7W the hot spot of the region, this mission surely would need a reliable platform as the one provided by Thales Alenia Space, which has earned an impressive reputable heritage in the satellites market."

"As provider of Nilesat's first two satellite payloads, we are delighted that Nilesat reiterates its confidence in our company with this satellite contract," said Reynald Seznec, President and CEO of Thales Alenia Space. "This order highlights the dynamic demand for 3-ton class satellites and the adequate positioning of our Spacebus 4000 platform in the satellite communications market."

Source : Thales Alenia Space

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