UAE-based satellite operator Yahsat is planning to launch its third satellite in 2016, extending its commercial Ka-band coverage to a further 17 countries and 600 million users.

This third satellite, Al Yah 3, will leverage advanced technology available and boost the company’s commercial Ka-band coverage across the African continent, as well as will cover South America for the first time.

The service will deliver wide-reaching and cost-effective satellite broadband to unserved and underserved communities, consumers, enterprises and telecom operators.

"The success of both Y1A and Y1B in providing government, NGO, consumer and corporate services has given us the drive to explore new growth avenues."

Yahsat chief executive officer Masood Sharif Mahmood said: "The success of both Y1A and Y1B in providing government, NGO, consumer and corporate services has given us the drive to explore new growth avenues."

In addition to boosting UAE’s aerospace industry, Al Yah 3 project will allow a select group of students to follow the end-to-end satellite manufacturing process, giving them hands-on experience in the industry and building capabilities.

Yahsat will announce its partners for the manufacture and launch of Al Yah 3 in the coming days, and will continue to explore options for the provision of its ground and network system.

The company will continue discussions to finalise its strategic distribution partnerships across Africa and Brazil.

Al Yah 3 complies with Yahsat’s plan to support social and economic development by providing people with a platform to access information, enabling them to enter the digital sharing stage, along with facilitating businesses to expand their network and help create jobs.

Defence Technology