The Russian national satellite communications operator — Russian Satellite Communications Company (RSCC) — has declared Information Satellite Systems Reshetnev (ISS Reshetnev) the winner of the open tender for design, development, and manufacture of the Express AM5 and Express AM6 satellites.

At the close of this commission, which consisted of RSCC’, Rossvyaz’ and Roscosmos’ representatives, ISS Reshetnev offered the best price and terms for manufacturing the satellites, as well as optimal work quality guarantees. The development costs for these two satellites will require 11,879,900.00 rubles, which is by 10 percent less than the other tender participants’ offers. In addition to ISS Reshetnev, S.P. Korolev Rocket and Space Corporation as well as Khrunichev SCRPC took part in tender.

Manufacture and launch of Express AM5 and Express AM6 satellites are scheduled in the 2006-2015 Federal Space Program of Russia. The satellites are scheduled to be placed into orbit in 2012 at 140 degrees East and 53 degrees East orbital slots, respectively. Express AM5 and Express AM6 are designed to provide a large broadcast services range of services, including digital TV and radio broadcasting, multimedia services, telephony, as well as mobile communications. Each satellite has a life expectancy of 15 years. The satellites will be developed in co-operation with ISS Reshetnev and Thales Alenia Space.