[SatNews] The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has — once again — selected their launch service based on past, successful performances.

The ISRO has selected Arianespace to launch the organization's GSAT 10 communications satellite. The launch is slated for the first quarter of 2012, using an Ariane 5, and will take place at the Guiana Space Center, Europe's Spaceport, in Kourou, French Guiana. GSAT 10 will be the 15th ISRO satellite to use the European launcher. Starting with the Apple experimental satellite on Flight L03 in 1981, Arianespace has orbited 13 Indian satellites to date. Arianespace has another Indian satellite in its order book, INSAT 4G (GSAT-8).

GSAT 10 is designed, assembled and integrated by ISRO. Weighing about 3,425 kg. at launch, it has payloads for communications, navigation and broadcasting (DTH). Positioned at 83 degrees East, its primary payload comprises 12 Ku-, 12 C- and 12 Extended C-band transponders. GSAT 10 coverage zone will include the entire Indian sub-continent. The satellite's design life exceeds 15 years.