MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (TSX: MDA) has signed a contract in excess of $200 million (CAD) with the Russian Radio Research and Development Institute (NIIR) to provide two advanced technology solutions for the Express AM5 and Express AM6 satellites. Scheduled to launch in 2012, the Express satellites are designed to provide a large range of broadcasting services, including digital TV, radio broadcasting, multimedia services and mobile communications. MDA will deliver the solutions between Q4 2011 and Q1 2012.

Russia is increasing their demand for satellite systems to meet the country’s growing needs in information provision and this has opened a new market for MDA’s products and services. The Express series of satellites are owned and operated by the Russian Satellite Communications Company, the major Russian satellite operator, currently operating a fleet of 11 communications and broadcasting satellites. Don Osborne, the vice president responsible for this business said, "the contract to supply the Express AM5 and Express AM6 solutions is aligned with our market focus in the Commonwealth of Independent States region and working with NIIR, a new customer for MDA, strengthens our presence in Russia."