Artistic rendition of Yahsat's Y1B satellite.

...had COM DEV-built microwave components and switches on board. Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (“Yahsat”), based in Abu Dhabi, is the satellite operator.  Recognizing that communications is a vital factor for economic and social growth in today’s world, Yahsat’s mission is to connect communities around the Middle East, Africa and Southwest Asia with reliable, affordable broadband services.  The company has established partnerships with local communications providers in 28 countries across the region to help deliver the service. The Y1B payload uses Ka-band multi spot-beam technology, achieving cost-effective bandwidth supply through 61 narrow spot beams. COM DEV International company information link.

Built by Thales Alenia Space, the Y1B was launched April 24th on an ILS Proton Breeze M rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.  It weighs more than 6,000 kg, features a spacecraft power of 14kW, and has a 15-year design lifetime.

For those who are interested in the pre-launch activities for the Proton Breeze M launch, select this direct link for the YouTube video, produced by TVROSCOSMOS.