Arianespace has launched two communications satellites, Arabsat 5C for the operator Arabsat and SES-2 for the operator SES, on an Ariane 5 ECA rocket.

SES-2, based on the Star 2.4 platform, is a hybrid C and Ku-band satellite that will replace SES’s AMC-3 spacecraft at 87°W and provide coverage of North America and the Caribbean.

Europe’s EADS Astrium and Thales Alenia Space have developed the Arabsat 5C satellite.

Arabsat 5C will deliver new large capacities on both frequencies that include Ka-band to provide all communications and broadband services in the Arab region and C-band to provide telecommunications and TV broadcasting services in Africa.