The German military communications satellite COMSATBw-1, built and integrated by Thales Alenia Space, is now in its pre-launch processing phase in Kourou (French Guiana).
The satellite should be launched end of September.
COMSATBw-1 is a secure relay platform that will play an important role in the German Bundeswehr’s (German armed forces) concept for network-centric operations. The initial contract comprises the production and integration of two satellites by Thales Alenia Space for the space segment prime contractor EADS Astrium.
Based on Spacebus 3000B platforms, the satellites will have a life-time of 15 years and will weight 2.5 tons.
“Our company was strongly involved in this contract right from the beginning, together with EADS Astrium,” Reynald Seznec, President and CEO of Thales Alenia Space said. “We have a long-standing track record with the German authorities, as we already provided the SAR-Lupe military radar instrument. This contract demonstrates our competencies in building small to large-sized satellite platforms, positioning Thales Alenia Space as a leading reference in the defense market.”