The launch of Yahsat’s first satellite, Y1A, is scheduled to take place on 30th March 2011 from the Arianespace station in Kourou, French Guiana.

The multipurpose satellite has been developed and manufactured by Yahsat, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mubadala Development Company, in partnership with a consortium composed of EADS Astrium and Thales Alenia Space.

Y1A, with a projected product lifespan of over 15 years, will cover the Middle East, Africa, and south-west Asia to create and manage regionally focused capacity for government, commercial and consumer satellite communication services.

The satellite will also provide the first secure Ka-band communications capacity (YahSecure) within the coverage area, enabling infrastructure for military communications.

Yahsat plans to launch two satellites this year, with Y1B due for launch in the fourth quarter of 2011.