Space Systems/Loral (SS/L), a subsidiary of Loral Space & Communications [Nasdaq:LORL] and provider of commercial satellites announced that it has been awarded a contract to manufacture a new spacecraft for SES [Paris:SESG] [LuxX:SESG]. The SES SIRIUS 5 is described as a powerful multi-mission satellite that will operate in both Ku and C frequency bands delivering high performance and extensive coverage for Direct-to-Home broadcasting, broadband, point-to-point, and VSAT services in Europe and Africa.

"We are pleased to work with Space Systems/Loral on another powerful satellite for the SES Fleet," said Martin Halliwell, president of SES Engineering. "Sirius 5 will have multiple missions and enable different parts of SES to broaden their ability to provide cost-effective solutions for broadcasting and broadband. The satellite will enhance our ability to provide cost-effective solutions for broadcasting and broadband services to the Nordic and Baltic regions and enhanced services to Africa." This is the third satellite that SS/L will deliver to an SES company.

Designed to be located at 5° E, SIRIUS 5 is configured with two Ku-band beams, one serving customers in the Nordic and Baltic countries and the other serving Sub-Saharan African. It has a total of 36 active Ku-band transponders available. The spacecraft also has two C-band beams, one with Global coverage and one with Hemispheric coverage, which can be operated with up to 24 active C-band transponders. The satellite design also includes a Ka-band uplink capability, allowing for flexible operations between Europe and Africa.

Based on the Space Systems/Loral 1300 satellite bus that offers flexibility for a broad range of applications, the satellite is scheduled for delivery in 2011 and is designed to provide service for more than 15 years.