Eutelsat sees record backlog

Eutelsat’s order backlog has increased almost 10% to a record €5.3 billion, the satellite operator said on announcing its first half 2011-2012 results. This follows the launch of two new satellites to expand its presence in the Middle East, Africa, central Europe and the Indian Ocean islands.

Video applications remain Eutelsat’s key business, generating first half revenues of €403.3, 67% of total revenues and a 2.9% year-on-year increase. By the end of 2011, Eutelsat’s fleet was delivering 4,173 channels, 391 more than a year earlier. The number of HD channels transmitted by the fleet increased 45.1% to 283.

Total revenues amounted to €602.4 million, up 4.6%. A refinancing deal finalised in December meant net income was down 10.1% to €157 million.

“With new in-orbit resources recently entered into service, the Group remains on track to achieve annual revenues of over    €1,235 million for the current fiscal year. This objective is however more challenging in view of the current competitive environment in some regions and a partial delay in the roll-out of Ka-Sat services. The EBITDA target of over €955 million for the current year is confirmed,” said Eutelsat CEO Michel de Rosen.