Arabsat issues RFP for four new satellites

Middle East satellite operator Arabsat has issued a request for proposals for the procurement of four new satellites – HS3, HS4, AR6E and AR6A.

The new craft will be positioned at three different orbital locations covering the Middle East, African, Asian and European markets and expected to include high-power DTH beams in the Ku-band and Ka-band spot beam capacity.

HS3 and HS4 will be used to replace Hellas-Sat’s current HS2 bird at 39°East with additional Ku- and Ka-band capcity. HS4 will provide Arabsat with additional Ku-band capacity over Europe and the Mediterranean. The existing Hellas-Sat 2 satellite covers eastern Europe, part of the Middle East and South Africa.

ARB6E and ARB6A will have payload capacities in Ku- and Ka-bands. They will support the expansion of Arabsat’s business and provide in-orbit backup capacity.

All four satellites will launch in 2016 and 2017. Proposals are due by May 1.

“The RFP for Arabsat’s 6th generation satellites reflects the company’s views on the exciting growth opportunities ahead of us and our commitment to capitalise on these opportunities,” said Arabsat CEO Khalid Balkhyour.