[SatNews] Saft is preparing to fill its next order for lithium-ion (Li-ion) space batteries as part of a five-year Long Term Agreement signed with Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems in 2009.

Under the multi-million dollar contract, Saft will deliver 12 battery packs of high-energy Li-ion batteries for Boeing’s 702HP satellites being built for the Inmarsat-5 series. The Saft batteries, with VES140S cells, will power three new Ka-band satellites, adding to Inmarsat’s current fleet of 11 GEO satellites. These satellites provide a wide range of voice and data services through an established global network of distributors and service providers. Each Inmarsat-5 satellite will carry 89 Ka-band beams that will operate in geosynchronous orbit with flexible global coverage. Saft’s batteries will offer 15kW of onboard power for the satellites’ critical systems in a low-weight package. With up to 18 years of battery life, the rechargeable Li-ion batteries will ensure continuous, reliable operation of the satellites at times when the satellite and its solar panels are in eclipse.