DirecTV has ordered two high-power spot-beam direct- broadcast satellites from Space Systems/Loral for $220 million, which has yet to deliver the DirecTV 7S satellite ordered in 2001. The 16-transponder DirecTV 8 is to be delivered late in the first quarter of 2005 and DirectTV 9S, with up to 54 transponders, will be delivered late in the second quarter of 2005 to back up the 4S and 7S satellites. Both will use Loral's 1300 spacecraft bus. DirecTV 7S was scheduled for delivery in August, but is delayed. The satellite is planned for launch in mid to late first quarter next year.
Source: Flight International