China Contracts for Israeli Telecommunication Satellites / Long March Launches

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China Contracts for Israeli Telecommunication Satellites / Long March Launches

More Information:

Hong Kong Satellite Technology Group (HKSTG) and Israel Aircraft Industries Ltd. (IAI) signed a contract, on January 17. The contract is for the purchase of two HKSAT satellites from IAI's MBT Division, with options for up to 5 additional telecommunication spacecraft. China Aerospace Corp will provide launch services using Long March rockets. Sino Satellite Communications Co. Ltd. will provide ground services for the HKSAT satellite constellation. The contract is estimated at US$180 million.

HKSAT-1, the first satellite, is scheduled to be launched in 2004, with the second satellite to be launched 18 months later. HKSTG expects to launch 7 HKSAT satellites.

Each satellite in the HKSAT series will carry 20 Ku-band transponders, and provide 5.500 kW of power. The HKSAT satellites will be based on IAI’s AMOS telecommunication spacecraft bus. Each satellite has a design life guarantee to provide a 12-year service life. The new satellites will be used to support the 2008 Olympic games, to be held in Beijing.

HKSTG was formed in 2001 by a group of private Hong Kong investors. Partners in the venture include the China Aerospace Ltd. Science and Technology Group Corporation (CASC), Sino Satellite Communications Company Limited (Sinosat) and Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI).

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January 17, 2002