While continuing negotiations between Israeli satellite operator Space Communications (Spacecom) and Beijing Xinwei for acquisition by the Chinese company, there remains a critical need for Spacecom to replace, as well as strengthen, their SATCOM coverage for clients, due to the loss of Amos 6 aboard a SpaceX rocket that exploded on the launch pad at Cape Canaveral during a test firing on September 3, and the loss of connection with their Amos 5 satellite in 2015.
According to sources, Spacecom will be spending approximately $161 million for a satellite order with Boeing Satellite Systems International—the satellite will have a life expectancy of 15 years. The expected launch date for the new satellite—Amos 17—would be in 2019 for SATCOM beam coverage of MENA and Europe.