SpaceX has launched Israeli firm Spacecom’s Amos-17 satellite from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the US.

Built by Boeing, the Amos-17 digital satellite will provide significant internet access and other communications services to underserved parts of Africa, Europe and the Middle East.

The satellite will enter service in a few months after on-orbit tests and moving to its final position over Africa.

Amos-17 is built on Boeing’s 702 satellite platform and will deliver broadband services such as television, internet and data services to a potential market consisting millions of people in its coverage regions.

According to Boeing, services provided by Spacecom will expand using Boeing’s 702 digital satellite platform.

The fixed and steerable beams of the multi-band AMOS-17 satellite are capable of providing continued services to long-term customers.

The moving bandwidth of the satellite can accommodate short-term demand for high-capacity throughput in times such as special events or natural disasters.

Boeing Satellite Systems International president Chris Johnson said: “AMOS-17 is packed with innovations so that it can support many challenging missions.

“We are proud to support Spacecom in their use of satellite technology to bring services, promote economic development and foster a greater sense of connection to people around the world.”

Spacecom CEO and president David Pollack said: “Working with the Boeing team is a remarkable experience. The shared commitment to AMOS-17’s performance and advanced digital payload package and meeting our tight time and resource goals is a tremendous win for the Boeing team.

“We look forward to successfully completing our joint mission when AMOS-17 commences operations.”

Once operational, the satellite will be the most advanced high-throughput satellite to provide satellite communication services to Africa. The life of Amos-17 is expected to exceed 20 years.