MUMBAI: Eutelsat Communications, one of the world‘s leading satellite operators, on Thursday announced closure of the transaction to acquire GE-23 satellite, associated customer contracts and orbital rights from GE Capital, having obtained all required regulatory approvals.

The satellite, renamed Eutelsat 172A, is now part of Eutelsat‘s fleet, with technical and commercial teams working to ensure a smooth transition for existing customers.

Commenting on the acquisition, Eutelsat Communications CEO Michel de Rosen said, "We are delighted to announce finalisation of this acquisition that brings three key assets to Eutelsat: first, a high-quality satellite equipped with a flexible payload of C and Ku-band capacity in great demand over the Asia-Pacific region. Secondly, the transaction includes orbital rights at 172° East, giving us an exceptional platform to serve dynamic markets in the region as well as headroom for further expansion.

"Thirdly, we are acquiring a portfolio of quality customer relationships that we are excited to serve. This satellite adds further ballast to Eutelsat‘s organic growth initiatives, notably our Eutelsat 70B satellite which is equipped with a dedicated Asian beam and on track for launch later this year."

Built by Thales Alenia Space, the satellite was launched in December 2005 with expected performance for 15 years. From geostationary orbit at 172° East, it offers unique coverage over the Asia-Pacific region via a payload of 20 Ku-band transponders accessing five interconnecting beams and 18 C-band transponders connected to a trans-Pacific beam.

Leveraging its comprehensive coverage and high-bandwidth capability, Eutelsat 172A already offers a broad range of telecom services to a diverse base of blue chip customers.