Thales Alenia Space has delivered the YahSat 1A communication module to EADS Astrium, for integration on their platform and tests. The initial satellite contract signed in 2007 between Al Yah Satellite Communications Company “Yahsat”, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mubadala Development Company, and a joint team of Thales Alenia Space and EADS Astrium forecasts the delivery of a dual satellite communications system comprising two satellites, Yahsat 1A and 1B, to be delivered in orbit as well as the associated ground infrastructure.


Thales Alenia Space will deliver YahSat 1B payload before the end of this year. Thales Alenia Space is the prime contractor for the space segment, and will design and build the communications payloads. EADS Astrium is responsible for the satellites, providing the Eurostar E3000 platforms, as well as integration, tests and Launch Early Operation Phase (LEOP) for both satellites. The ground and network management segments (comprising ground terminals) are also under their responsibility and will be provided in close coordination with Thales Alenia Space and Thales. YahSat 1A should be launched during first quarter of 2011 and YahSat 1B during second half of 2011. The operational life of the satellites is estimated at 15 years.