With the successful launch of Skynet 5A, all three of Astrium's branches – Services, Satellites and Space Transportation – are involved.
Through its subsidiary Paradigm Secure Communications, Astrium Services is prime contractor for the Skynet 5 contract for the provision of secure milsatcoms to the UK MoD until at least 2020.
Astrium Satellites is prime contractor to Paradigm for the design and build of the three next-generation Skynet 5 military communications satellites and associated ground infrastructure which will provide the UK MoD with a significant increase in secure milsatcoms capacity and performance.
Astrium Space Transportation is prime contractor for the European Ariane 5 launcher, responsible for the delivery to Arianespace of a fully integrated and tested launch vehicle.
The Skynet 5 programme demonstrates Astrium's complete range of expertise across all sectors of the space business: services, satellites and space transportation.
Skynet 5B is identical to its predecessor satellite Skynet 5A. It will reinforce and extend the operational service already provided by Skynet 5A, which entered full service in April this year.
