Thales Alenia Space--a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%)--will provide the new geostationary model that replaces the current satellite positioned on SES’s prime orbital slot at 57 degrees East. “From this key location at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia, SES will continue to deliver content and connectivity solutions to some of the world's fastest-growing markets,” the operator stated.

At one of the company’s most valuable positions, the SES-26 model will support government communications solutions in the region and also giving access to the Ethiosat platform to 10 million TV Ethiopian households.

“For over 20 years, satellites at 57 degrees East have been at the centrepiece of our connectivity network bridging Europe to Africa, the Middle East and Asia. From broadcasting video content across Europe and Africa to delivering connectivity services for aviation, maritime and government, SES-26 underlines our commitment to the growth of our business and to our customers,” said Steve Collar, CEO of SES, in the press release.

Thales Alenia Space is also responsible for building purchased by SES in November of last year and set to replace existing models in the 19.2 East slot in 2024. This new addition is part of the company’s expansion, with several launches planned in the second half of 2022.