VINASAT-2 launch

Lockheed Martin’s VINASAT-2 telecommunications satellite designed and built for the Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) has been set in orbit.

The satellite manufacturer has presented the ownership certificate to VNPT, which is planning to offer satellite services beginning this month.

VNPT president and CEO Vu Tuan Hung said that VINASAT-2 would join VINASAT-1 to form a satellite network, helping to improve the business capabilities, safety and reliability of the Vietnam telecommunications network, as well as support and back up the terrestrial transmission infrastructure.

"This will promote the satellite industry of Vietnam, bringing common values to the community and enabling the long-term development and business plan of VNPT in the area of satellite communications," Hung added.

"It also helps satisfy the needs of the dynamic economy of Vietnam and help integrate Vietnam into the world and regional community in all areas of life."

Based on Lockheed’s A2100 platform and featuring 24 Ku-band channels providing uplink and downlink coverage, the VINASAT-2 satellite positioned at 131.8º east longitude, will offer fixed satellite services to Vietnam and its neighbouring countries.

"This will promote the satellite industry of Vietnam, bringing common values to the community and enabling the long-term development and business plan of VNPT in the area of satellite communications."

With additional fuel reserves to exploit manoeuvre life and an orbit design life of 15 years, the satellite is the second developed by Lockheed for VNPT and 101st commercial geostationary satellite for global customers by the manufacturer.

Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems president Joseph Rickers added: "From contract award in May 2010, Lockheed Martin and VNPT worked together seamlessly to ensure an efficient on-time delivery of VINASAT-2, a highly reliable and capable satellite that will serve its users for many years to come."

VNPT’s first satellite for Vietnam was delivered in 2008.

Image: VINASAT-2 launched aboard Ariane 5-ECA launch vehicle from Arianespace launch facility. Photo: courtesy of Arianespace.