UK military satellite set for launch
The Skynet programme provides military communications for the MoD
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Friday, 30, May 2008 01:19
The third military communications satellite for the UK under the Skynet 5 programme is set to launch into space today.
The launch completes the programme after the first two satellites entered space in April and November last year.
Skynet 5 is designed to provide secure next-generation military communications for the Ministry of Defence (MoD)
Skynet 5C will lift-off from Kourou, French Guiana, today on an Ariane 5 launch vehicle.
Astrium, which is responsible for the Skynet 5 service provision through its company Paradigm, described the third and final launch as a "major milestone" for the programme.
The company said today's launch follows "many years" of preparation and collaboration with the MoD.
Paradigm managing director Malcolm Peto said: "We are thrilled that the third Skynet 5 satellite is ready for launch.
"This is an enormous achievement and a credit to the UK MoD and industry teams involved in the Skynet programme."