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SKYNET 5A SATELLITE READY FOR LAUNCH * Paradigm prepares for new era in provision of military satellite communications services A new era in secure military communications for the UK Ministry of Defence will begin with the launch of the Skynet 5A satellite from Kourou, French Guiana on 10 March 2007.The launch will take place in the evening on an Ariane 5 launch vehicle, from the European Space Port. Skynet 5 is the groundbreaking next generation military satellite communications programme for the UK Ministry of Defence. Secure communications services will be delivered by the owner and operator, Paradigm, part of Astrium Services, with the system, including the satellites, designed and built by Astrium Satellites. This will be a major milestone in the large, complex and technically advanced PFI and is the culmination of many years' collaboration and partnership between the MoD, Paradigm, Astrium, EADS and financial experts in the City of London. The launch of Skynet 5A will be followed by the launch of Skynet 5B in the second half of 2007 and an in-orbit spare Skynet 5C in 2008. The satellites will meet long haul communications needs for the UK MoD and Paradigm's other international customers. Astrium has met the triple challenge on Skynet 5 - responsible for the satellites, the service provision through Paradigm and prime contractorship on the launcher Ariane 5. The achievements of the Skynet 5 programme are underpinned by effective partnering between the MoD and industry. Paradigm, Astrium Satellites, Serco, LogicaCMG, EADS DS and the MoD have worked together to make the project a success for all the stakeholders. Malcolm Peto, Managing Director of Paradigm Secure Communications, said: > "We are all very excited about the launch of Skynet 5A. It is the culmination of many years' of co-operation between industry and the Ministry of Defence and will enable Paradigm to deliver mission critical communications services to our deployed military customers, faster and better than ever. The best Armed Forces in the world deserve the best communications service. And that is what we will provide with Skynet 5" |
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