Astrium is on target for the third Skynet-5 satellite launch with Skynet-5C scheduled for launch from Kourou, French Guiana on May 30th 2008 on an Ariane 5 launch vehicle. Astrium plays a triple role on the Skynet-5 program. The company is responsible for the service provision through its company Paradigm, is also the prime contractor on the Ariane 5 launch vehicle, and serves as prime contractor for the satellites and associated ground segment. A new era in secure military communications for the UK Ministry of Defence began when the Skynet-5A satellite entered service in April 2007, following its successful launch from Kourou, French Guiana on March 11th in 2007. Skynet-5B was launched on November 14th, 2007, and entered service in January one month earlier than scheduled.
Skynet-5 is the nexgen military satellite communications program for the UK Ministry of Defence. Secure communications services are being delivered by the owner and operator, Paradigm, which is part of Astrium Services, with the system, including the satellites, designed and built by Astrium Satellites. Astrium Space Transportation is prime contractor on the Ariane 5 rocket. This will be another major milestone in the large, complex, and technically advanced Skynet-5 PFI and is the culmination of many years’ collaboration and partnership between the MoD, Paradigm, Astrium, EADS, and financial experts. The MoD requirements under the Skynet-5 contract are fully met by the Skynet-5A and -5B satellites. Following the successful launch of Skynet-5C, discussions between the MoD and Paradigm will determine the best use of the three satellite constellation. The Skynet-5 satellites are based on Astrium’s Eurostar E3000 satellite platform, with a 34-m solar array span and a launch mass of 4.63 tons. Skynet 5C will be positioned at 17.8°W.
