Intelsat launches Horizons 3e satellite to complete global Epic network coverage
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Intelsat launches Horizons 3e satellite to complete global Epic network coverage

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Intelsat has successfully launched its new Horizons 3e satellite, completing the global network coverage of its Epic satellite portfolio.

The launch of the new Horizons satellite – part of a joint venture with SKY perfect Jsat – adds coverage of the Asia and Pacific Ocean regions to Intelsat’s Epic platform, completing its global footprint.

The new satellite was launched aboard an Ariane 5 launch vehicle from the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana. Built by Boeing, the satellite offers both C- and Ku-band high throughput connectivity solutions.

Horizons 3e is expected to commence service in the first quarter of 2019, Intelsat said. The launch marks the completion of its “Epic” series of six high-throughput satellites designed for broadband and connectivity services globally.

“The demand for broadband connectivity has never been greater”, said Stephen Spengler, Intelsat’s chief executive officer. “The proven and unique performance of the Intelsat EpicNG platform, combined with our global wide-beam satellite fleet, enables us to uniquely fulfill customer demands across a wide range of verticals and applications.

Intelsat first opened its high throughput EpicNG network in March 2016 with the launch of Intelsat 29e, which primarily covers the Americas. This was followed by Intelsat 33e in early 2017, which expanded the company’s services in C-, Ku and Ka-band to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and across the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean.

It has since added Intelsat 32e, 35e and 37e, and finally the new Horizons 3e satellite, which will be owned by JV company Horizons-3 Satellite LLC, to completed the set.

Spengler added: “Intelsat EpicNG’s technology has enabled affordable and sustainable broadband connectivity to underserved communities around the world.  It has delivered high quality and resilient connectivity to businesses in urban and remote regions, provided airline and cruise passengers with simple, high speed connectivity for their entertainment and business needs; and ensured secure, resilient connectivity for government customers.

“Along with our long-standing partner SKY Perfect JSAT, we look forward to helping our customers in the region expand their business and achieve their growth objectives.”

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