Global satellite operator Eutelsat Communications has partnered with Space Tech Innovation Limited (STI), a subsidiary of Thaicom, to develop and operate a new software-defined satellite (SDS) at the 119.5 degrees East orbital slot over Asia.
As per the joint statement, this partnership aims to expand Eutelsat's services and connectivity offerings in the Asian region. The key points from the announcement include the following:
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Eutelsat and Thaicom Partnership
Eutelsat Asia, a subsidiary of Eutelsat Communications, has entered into a partnership agreement with Space Tech Innovation Limited (STI), a subsidiary of Thaicom.
New Software-Defined Satellite (SDS)
The partnership will create a state-of-the-art geostationary SDS, which will offer instant in-orbit adjustment and seamless reconfiguration capabilities. This technology allows for optimized utilization of in-orbit resources.
Capacity and Coverage
Eutelsat will lease and operate half of the capacity on the new satellite over its lifetime. The satellite will provide around 50 Gbps of incremental capacity over Asia, addressing the growing demand for connectivity in the region.
Quality of Service
The SDS's performance, combined with its flexibility in coverage, bandwidth allocation, and power levels, is expected to provide a high-quality service experience to Eutelsat's customers in the Asian region.
Geo-LEO Compatibility
The new satellite will be fully compatible with Eutelsat and OneWeb's GEO/LEO multi-orbit approach, enhancing the capabilities and reach of their satellite networks.
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Delivery Timeline
The SDS is scheduled to be delivered in calendar year 2027.
Strategic Significance
The partnership is seen as a strategic opportunity for Eutelsat to leverage the 119.5 degrees East orbital slot to address connectivity demands across Asia. Thaicom's experience and expertise in the Asia-Pacific market are highlighted as key factors in the partnership.
Comments
Eutelsat Communications commented: "We are confident in Thaicom's experience as a leading satellite operator in Asia with over 30 years of experience in the industry and its expertise in the Asia-Pacific market. This new generation satellite, fully compatible with our future LEO-GEO offer, will enable Eutelsat to address the dynamic growth in connectivity demand in the region."
"This is an important milestone for Thaicom as we continue our journey to be a leading space tech company in the region," stated Thaicom.
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Eutelsat Communications and Thaicom are both optimistic about their partnership and its potential to create synergies and capture growth opportunities in the satellite industry. This collaboration is a significant step towards enhancing connectivity services in the Asian region and leveraging advanced satellite technology to meet the growing demand.
