Eutelsat acquires GE-23 satellite

France-based satellite operator Eutelsat has acquired the GE-23 satellite, including associated customer contracts and orbital rights, from GE Capital.

The satellite, has been renamed Eutelsat 172A and is now part of Eutelsat’s fleet.

Launched in December 2005 with expected performance for 15 years, the satellite is located 172° East, offering coverage over the Asia-Pacific region via a payload of 20 Ku-band transponders and 18 C-band transponders.

Commenting on the acquisition, Michel de Rosen, CEO of Eutelsat Communications, said, “We are delighted to announce finalisation of this acquisition that brings three key assets to Eutelsat: first, a high-quality satellite equipped with a flexible payload of C and Ku-band capacity in great demand over the Asia-Pacific region. Secondly, the transaction includes orbital rights at 172° East, giving us an exceptional platform to serve dynamic markets in the region as well as headroom for further expansion. Thirdly, we are acquiring a portfolio of quality customer relationships that we are excited to serve. This satellite adds further ballast to Eutelsat’s organic growth initiatives, notably our Eutelsat 70B satellite which is equipped with a dedicated Asian beam and on track for launch later this year.”