Lockheed, Arabsat/KACST in Satellite Deal to Boost Media in Saudi Arabia and Middle East

Arabsat and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) announced in a press release today contracts for Lockheed Martin to manufacture two A2100 communications satellites, in a bid to provide TV, internet, telephone and secure communications to customers in the Middle East.

“The two satellites ordered by Arabsat will strengthen the Arabsat fleet to 10 in-orbit operational satellites. These new satellites will ensure and guarantee Arabsat expansion through the additional services that will provide advanced telecommunications capabilities, including television, internet, telephone and secure communications, to customers in the Middle East, Africa and Europe. The contracts were signed April 9, 2015. Construction of the satellites will commence immediately and will be completed for launch in 2018.”

“Under the agreement, Lockheed Martin and TAQNIA Space Company will pursue the creation of a Joint Venture, anticipated to be structured as a limited liability company, that would develop talent and infrastructure that will support space capabilities and services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. KACST will serve as a technology partner, leading research and development efforts that will support new innovations for future Saudi Arabian space endeavors.

“Lockheed Martin’s proven record of developing and delivering state-of-the-art space communications capabilities will ensure the Kingdom’s critical telecommunications needs are met. KACST and Arabsat collectively selected the best and latest technology for their satellites and KACST will elevate local satellite technologies competency through the Joint Venture with Lockheed Martin and TAQNIA Space Company,” said Prince Dr. Turki bin Saud bin Mohammad Al Saud, President of KACST.”

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