MUMBAI: Thai satellite operator Shin Satellite and Arianespace have signed the launch contract for the Thaicom 5 satellite. The launch takes place next year.

Thaicom 5 will provide telecom and television services throughout the Asia-Pacific region from its orbital position at 78.5 degrees East. It will eventually replace the Thaicom 1 and 2 satellites.
 
 

The deal comes less than a month after the successful launch of Thaicom 4 (IpStar) which will provide broadband services. Built by Alcatel Alenia Space, Thaicom 5 will weigh about 2,800 kg at launch, and will be fitted with 24 C-band and 14 Ku-band transponders.
 
 

Shin Satellite deploys a fleet of satellites that provide an array of telecom services for Asia, Australia, Africa, the Middle East and a large part of Europe.