The middle eastern satellite operator Yahsat has agreed to order two launch communications satellites to operate from geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) from Airbus Defence and Space. The satellites are called the Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5 and will replace Al Yah 1 and Al Yah 2 in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
The investment by Yahsat is said to be in the order of US$950 million covering the satellites and their related ground systems. The initial “authorisation to proceed” agreement has been signed between the parties with the final order due later once a capacity lease has been agreed with the UAE government.
The company also has Al Yah 3 in orbit, although that has been beset with woes. Its original Ariane 5 launch suffered an orbit targeting error – especially to its inclination – and the satellite had to use some fuel to recover itself, losing some of its expected 15-year design life span. A partial insurance loss claim for US$115 million was paid. A new claim has been made for a further loss of lifespan after a reassessment of the lifespan of the satellite. The satellite is also known to be suffering from an issue relating to its electric thruster system PPU (Power Processing Unit), which will require it to be run at lower voltage.
Artist’s impression of Al Yah 3 in GEO. Courtesy: Orbital ATK
