CONTRACT WATCH: Arianespace wins Hylas

HYLAS has been built by the industrial consortium grouping EADS Astrium and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) using an ISRO I-2K platform. Positioned at 33,5 degrees West, this powerful Ka band satellite will be Europe's first superfast broadband satellite, serving customers all over  Europe. The satellite will weigh about 2,750 kg at launch, and has a design life exceeding 15 years.

"We have chosen Arianespace for the launch of HYLAS as they have demonstrated the right combination of reliability, value and performance", said David Williams, Chief Executive of Avanti Communications Group plc. "Their track record is the best guarantee of success. HYLAS, once in orbit will begin a new era in broadband services for the people of Europe and so a reliable and successful launch is of huge importance."

Commenting on this latest contract, Arianespace Chairman and CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall said: "Arianespace is proud of this opportunity to serve a new satellite operator and I would like to thank Avanti Communications for its choice. This new contract, the 11^th signed in 2009 and the 2^nd in the United Kingdom, is clear recognition of the quality and competiveness of our launch Service and Solutions offer."