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ISSUE 77 | JUNE 2021 Licensed by Dubai Development Authority

ARABSAT

E X T E N D S

ITS REACH

Armed with research from its new MENA penetration study, Arabsat gears up to conquer new markets JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com INTRO

GROUP

MANAGING DIRECTOR RAZ ISLAM [email protected] +971 4 375 5483

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR VIJAYA CHERIAN [email protected] +971 4 375 5472

EDITORIAL

EDITOR VIJAYA CHERIAN [email protected] +971 (0) 55 105 3787

SUB EDITOR AELRED DOYLE [email protected]

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GROUP SALES DIRECTOR SANDIP VIRK [email protected] +971 4 375 5483 / +971 50 929 1845 WELCOME +44 (0) 773 444 2526 The MENA region has an with Arabsat enjoying the DESIGN unusually high lion’s share of the pie in ART DIRECTOR SIMON COBON number of free- several Arab markets. [email protected] to-air satellite Almost 88% of homes in DESIGNER PERCIVAL MANALAYSAY channels the GCC use satellite services [email protected] compared to provided by Arabsat. In CIRCULATION & PRODUCTION the rest of the world, and while markets like Saudi Arabia, Iran PRODUCTION MANAGER VIPIN V. VIJAY we note increased affinity for and Lebanon, the operator [email protected] +971 4 375 5713 streaming services and IPTV, dominates the satellite space. some parts of the Arab world In Iran, Arabsat has access WEB DEVELOPMENT continue to remain loyal to to 97% of the TV market. SADIQ SIDDIQUI ABDUL BAEIS satellite and with good reason. Likewise, it enjoys FINANCE In fact, a recent MENA satellite exceptional popularity in ACCOUNTS SHIYAS KAREEM penetration study conducted some parts of Africa and [email protected] by Arabsat in conjunction . However, the satellite +971 4 375 5474 with IPSOS revealed that operator is also cognisant CREDIT CONTROL EXECUTIVE CAMERON CARDOZO satellite continues to enjoy that change is coming. So, [email protected] a whopping 97% market in addition to launching new +971 4 375 5499 , it is also looking to share in this region. FOUNDER That’s not unusual given develop products and services DOMINIC DE SOUSA (1959-2015) that satellite serves as the that cater to the needs of a sole content distribution new streaming generation. platform in the more remote This issue brings you parts of the MENA region, all the numbers from where fiber and other the study. Enjoy. The publisher of this magazine has made infrastructure are minimal. every effort to ensure the content is accurate on the date of publication. The opinions and views According to the study, the expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect vast majority of MENA viewers the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content are published – almost 80% – are under 44 in good faith. No part of this publication or any part years old, and at least 45% of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the permission are under 30, which illustrates of the publisher in writing. Publication licensed by Dubai Development Authority to CPI Trade Publishing the strong sustainable FZ LLC. Printed by Printwell Printing Press LLC. relevance of satellite TV in

CPI Trade Media. PO Box 13700, Dubai, UAE. MENA. As a result, operators VIJAYA CHERIAN +971 4 375 5470 cpitrademedia.com are in a powerful position, Editor © Copyright 2021. All rights reserved. SatellitePro ME

01 JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com CONTENTS

UPDATE 05 Industry News Hope Probe set to commence two-year science mission; NASA’s contractor launches Zin Aerospace in Abu Dhabi; Registrations open for IAC event in UAE; Telecom Egypt selects Juniper Networks; Viasat secures licenses to operate in Nigeria; Ateme secures Nilesat project in Egypt; Arabsat, Fixed Solutions and EgyptSat enhance commercial relationship ; and more 05

COVER - MENA SATELLITE PENETRATION STUDY 12 Arabsat expands reach No satellite operator in the MENA satellite space wields as much power and influence as Arabsat, which was founded in 1976. Its recent study sheds light on satellite penetration in the MENA region and the place that Arabsat occupies in the market. SatellitePro brings you the details

INTERVIEW 12 18 With Yahsat’s new CEO He is young, bold and a dynamic thought leader, ready to take Yahsat to the next level as CEO of the company. Ali Al Hashemi talks to SatellitePro ME about Yahsat’s upcoming sixth satellite, the operator’s increasing focus on improving its communications services and its aim to build some satellite components within the UAE

AVIATION 22 In-flight connectivity 18 While the aviation industry has been badly hit by the Covid pandemic, the vaccination roll-out that has been kicked off by many countries around the world gives us some hope that we might get back to some normality and see an increased need for inflight connectivity, says Dave Bijur of Intelsat

GUEST COLUMN 24 Stability on the ground New satellites are ineffective without the right ground technology 22

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Untitled-1 1 8/22/19 10:01 AM JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com UPDATE

Hope Probe set to commence NASA’s contractor two-year science mission launches Zin SPACE throughout the day, night and The probe’s three The Emirates Mission, seasons of a full Martian year. instruments were activated Aerospace in the first interplanetary Omran Sharaf, Project on April 10 and a period Abu Dhabi exploration undertaken by an Director of EMM, said: of commissioning and Arab nation, has announced “Following a successful testing followed. SPACE the mission has completed cruise to Mars, a near- Since the Hope probe Zin Technologies, a spacecraft and instrument perfect Mars Orbit Insertion entered orbit around Mars, NASA prime contractor, exercises used to practice manoeuvre and our transition the Emirates Mars Ultraviolet has launched science observations and from Hope’s capture Spectrometer (EMUS) operations in Abu is now ready to commence orbit to our science orbit, instrument has collected Dhabi as the UAE builds science data gathering. The we have completed our nearly 14,000 spectral-spatial its reputation in space two-years science mission commissioning, calibration images of the atmosphere, technology. Zin-AS is a formally commenced on May and testing phase. The Mars corresponding to 1.6m space flight hardware 23, aiming to yield the first Hope probe is perfectly individual spectra. The engineering company complete picture of Mars’ positioned to commence its observations will be repeated that develops and lower and upper atmospheres two-year science mission.” throughout the science phase, operates space flight characterizing the composition science instruments and structure of the upper on the International atmosphere as it changes Space Station (ISS). The within and across seasons. company will deliver its Hope is following its (LEO) planned 20,000 – 43,000 operational experience km elliptical science orbit, and life and physical with an inclination to Mars science technologies of 25 degrees. The probe will portfolio to the UAE complete one orbit of the and the GCC region, planet every 55 hours and offering engineering will capture a full planetary and space hardware data sample every nine days. system manufacturing capabilities. The company, which has partnered Registrations open for IAC event in UAE with Holding Space SPACE registrations to the event. advances, swap insights, AD Limited (HSAD) to The 72nd edition of For the very first strategies and rising coordinate regional the International time, the IAC will open trends in the fields of space efforts, said it brings Astronautical Congress its doors to the global research and exploration. decades of LEO (IAC) 2021, organised space community in the The Congress will feature operational experience by the International United Arab Emirates, a line-up of thematic and a life and physical Astronautical Federation the first Arab country plenary events, highlight science technologies (IAF) in collaboration with to host the IAC since its and keynote lectures, portfolio to the UAE the Mohammed Bin Rashid establishment in 1950. in-depth technical and and the GCC. Space Centre (MBRSC), The IAC draws high-level special sessions, interactive Also, Zin will under the patronage of stakeholders from space workshops in addition collaborate with Sheikh Mohammed bin agencies and institutions to an exclusive global local agencies and Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice around the world under networking forum, social space research President and Prime one roof to exchange events and a space science centres to encourage Minister of the UAE and information and ideas, exhibition, all tailored to young Emiratis. Ruler of Dubai is inviting share developments and encourage engagement.

05 UPDATE JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com UPDATE

Telecom Egypt selects Juniper Networks Ateme secures Nilesat project in Egypt

CONNECTIVITY operational experience along DEPLOYMENT for the Egyptian (ENMA) capable of helping us achieve Telecom Egypt has selected with an end-user experience. Nilesat has chosen to deploy channels. This allows our current requirements, Juniper Networks to upgrade Together, the 400G routing Ateme’s Titan Live platform ENMA to increase its but it will also enable us to and deploy a network capacity portfolio and the automation for two of its projects. footprint internationally. expand our infrastructure expansion across its national portfolio deliver the ability In the first of two tender A software-based as we continue to increase infrastructure, serving a for Telecom Egypt to drive its wins, Ateme Titan Live will encoding solution, Titan our service offering.” customer base of 9.8m for digital transformation strategy enable contribution over IP Live delivers high video Mohamed Razik Zaghlouli, fixed-line services, 6.9m based on its performance via a new fibre link between quality at minimum bitrates Regional Sales Director, for broadband and 7.3m for and user experience. Nilesat and Egyptian Media with accelerated parallel Ateme, added: “Being chosen mobile. This move is in line Juniper’s HealthBot, Production City (EMPC), processing. The implemented as the unique vendor for these with the exponential growth an automated, open and an information and media solution will empower two projects is testimony to of bandwidth demand and programmable network complex with studios and Nilesat to take full control of our innovative technology service quality expectations diagnosis tool, will also be outdoor shooting areas for its new platform, providing Mohamed Razik Zaghlouli, solutions and cements our faced by Telecom Egypt, step with exponential growth residential customers alike. deployed by Telecom Egypt. production companies. This the opportunity to offer Regional Sales Director, Ateme. status as a leader in video coupled with its pursuit of and future demands. The To meet Egypt’s bandwidth HealthBot provides end-to- architecture enables EMPC new satellite services. delivery technology. As one a root-and-branch digital deployment is an automated, capacity requirements, the end operational intelligence, to transfer content much In addition to what has all software capabilities, of the leading MENA satellite transformation programme as flexible infrastructure that network will be equipped with translating real-time analytics faster than with the previous been described Nilesat without additional costs. solutions providers, our a key element of the Egyptian collects, analyses, interprets 400G interfaces from Juniper’s into actionable insights. traditional SDI networks. benefits from a flexible and Hamdy Mounir, Nilesat work with Nilesat further Government’s Digital Egypt and responds to real-time purpose-built IP transport The entire deployment Ateme’s Titan Live video transparent business and CTO, said: “As we embarked strengthens our position and ICT 2030 initiatives. data reporting its own health portfolio using custom silicon uses Junos OS, a unified headend has also been licensing model, in which on these projects Ateme’s in the region and we look Juniper’s deployment for status and traffic patterns. to deliver high density, reliable operating system across selected to enable Nilesat licenses are inclusive of all offering really stood out from forward to continuing to Telecom Egypt is to invest in a As a result, Telecom Egypt data throughput and low each solution. This approach to expand its current video codecs and types of output. the competition. Its Titan expand our relationships customisable, automated high- will operate more efficiently cost-per-bit. This will be delivers operational processing infrastructure This means Nilesat gains Live solution is not only in this area and globally.” performance network that can and cost-effectively, while complemented by Juniper’s simplicity for Telecom scale up and scale out with delivering a better user standards-based automation Egypt, while remaining fully assured service experience in experience for its business and portfolio that delivers an open and programmable. KSA and Arabsat, Fixed Solutions and EgyptSat India enhance commercial relationship Viasat secures licenses Israel and Greece sign cooperate PARTNERSHIP said: “We are pleased with Dr Mohamed Al-Ghamry, Arabsat has announced a this strategic partnership CEO of EgyptSat added: record $1.65bn defence deal to operate in Nigeria on space strategic partnership and for cooperation in the field “This deal represents CONNECTIVITY Ka-band spectrum, Viasat cooperation agreement of digital transformation the beginning of a new DEFENCE period, Israel’s defence Viasat was granted a full will be positioned to expand SPACE with Fixed Solutions and services and cybersecurity effort towards optimal Israel and Greece ministry said. suite of operating licenses— its satellite-based The King Abdulaziz EgyptSat to enhance the to provide services that utilisation of satellite have signed their The training centre Internet Service Provider connectivity service to City for Science and commercial relationship meet the needs of the telecommunication biggest-ever defence will be modelled on (ISP) license, VSAT license more regions and citizens Technology (KACST) between the three parties Egyptian community. This solutions for government, procurement deal, Israel’s own flight and three Earth Stations in across Africa—ahead of and Indian Space and benefit from the deal will help increase business and private which Israel said would academy and will Motion (ESIM) licenses— the launch of ViaSat-3, its Research Organisation different services of capabilities towards sectors to enhance the strengthen political and be equipped with 10 in order to bring high- global (ISRO) have signed Arabsat satellites, which expanding joint projects country projects aimed economic ties between M-346 training aircraft quality satellite internet comprised of three a Memorandum of have a multiple wide in the African market and at digital transformation the countries. The produced by Italian connectivity to Nigerian communications satellites. A Understanding for range of coverage. maximising capabilities as it supports the telco agreement includes a company Leonardo, communities where limited ViaSat-3 satellite also aimed space cooperation. Khalid bin Ahmed in the field of satellite systems infrastructure $1.65bn contract for the ministry said. Elbit or no internet service is to serve Africa, as well as The implementation of Balkheyour, CEO of telecommunications. It will and the national projects the establishment and will supply kits to currently available. The Europe and the Middle East. the space cooperation Arabsat, stressed Arabsat’s enhance access to remote undertaken by the state operation of a training upgrade and operate Nigerian Communications Since being granted the has been assigned determination to provide areas, taking advantage due to the characteristics of centre for the Hellenic Greece’s T-6 aircraft Commission granted Viasat licenses, Viasat has begun a to Saudi Space all satellite services through of the services provided satellite telecommunication Air Force by Israeli and also provide multiple licenses to operate trial programme to connect Commission (SSC), its fleet that provides wide in various fields and to systems in terms of defence contractor Elbit training, simulators and within the 28GHz Ka-band five unserved Nigerian according to a report range coverage in the world. increase the means of implementation speed and Systems over a 22-year logistical support. satellite frequency band. communities covering in Asharq Al-Awsat. Mahmoud Sherif Tawfiq, communicating with those the comprehensive coverage With access to the 28GHz 15,000 people. CEO of Fixed Solutions, areas faster and securely. of all Egyptian territories.”

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TheAngle and ABS extend partnership MBRSC partners with ispace Turksat revenue to serve customers in the MENA region on Emirates Lunar Mission increases PARTNERSHIP on the ABS satellites. SPACE Emirates Lunar Mission, rover to the Moon, provide Satellite operator ABS and Paolo Pusterla, MD of Mohammed Bin Rashid the first of its kind from wired communication and to 300m in satellite network services Europe and the Middle Space Centre (MBRSC) the Arab world. power during the cruise 2020 integrator, TheAngle, have East for ABS said: “This has signed a contract The ‘Rashid’ rover will phase, and engage in extended their joint activities collaboration is a major boost with Japan’s ispace, inc. be transported to the Moon wireless communication SATELLITE REVENUES in the MENA region, serving for both companies that will (ispace), under which the on ispace’s lunar lander on the lunar surface. Turksat has announced customers across ABS’ further enhance our respective latter will provide payload during the company’s The project is a key that its revenue in footprint at 75 degrees East. businesses and accelerate delivery services for the ‘Mission 1’ in 2022 as part of the UAE’s space 2020 increased by The collaboration the development of new Emirates Lunar Mission. part of its commercial exploration strategy, which 40.7% compared to focuses on providing energy, opportunities with attractive Under this agreement, programme known as is centred around building 2019, reaching TL2.5bn enterprise and government offerings to more clients.” ispace becomes a key ‘-R’. The Japanese new knowledge capabilities, (300m). In a statement, customers with bespoke, Hassam Karim, General strategic and implementation lunar exploration company inspiring future generations the company says cost-effective communication Manager of TheAngle partner to MBRSC on the will deliver the ‘Rashid’ to pursue space science that its cable business solutions including ground the Middle East, accessible remains strong, driven by added: “Our service offerings and research, and fostering had, at TL986m, segment facilities and flexible also from Europe, as well traditional verticals such enable customers to take Emirates Lunar Mission’s global collaboration. Upon the highest share bandwidth allocations on as coverage of the African as oil and gas, maritime/ advantage of the expertise of ‘Rashid’ rover will go to the Moon the execution of the mission, (39.5%) of revenues. ABS-2 and ABS-2A satellites, and Asian continents mobility and governmental. both companies to provide on ispace’s Mission 1 in 2022. the UAE and Japan, together, Cable service co-located at the prime over multiple beams. Broadband, video contribution an even higher quality of are anticipated to be the next revenues were in location of 75°E. Both satellites The satellite services and video distribution are turnkey services to suits two nations to successfully fact 29.4% higher offer prime capacity over demand in the MENA market also key applications hosted their needs of this region.” put a spacecraft on the lunar than in 2019, when surface, following the United they amounted to States, Russia and China. TL762m ($93.05m). Saudi Arabia After a thorough Meanwhile, satellite Abu Dhabi and Yahsat plans sixth consideration of competing service revenues in launches lunar payload delivery service 2020 were TL844m Singapore join satellite by 2024 providers, MBRSC selected ($103.06m) and hands for space 17th satellite SATELLITE LAUNCH ispace based on the company’s claimed a share of Yahsat is constructing its sixth technological credibility. 33.8%, and IT revenues SPACE SATELLITE LAUNCH satellite T4 and plans to make TL665m ($81.20m) Singapore’s national space office, The King Abdulaziz City for Science it operational by 2024. The and a share of 26.6%. the Office for Space Technology and Technology (KACST) has company has five satellites in NCC signs agreement with Turksat notes that the and Industry (OSTIn) and the announced the launch of Shaheen Sat the sky providing a range of value of its fixed assets UAE Space Agency have signed successfully from Baikonur base in services-from big systems to small NigComSat for services in Nigeria in 2020, especially a Letter of Intent signalling their the Republic of Kazakhstan onboard mobile solutions. In 2020, Yahsat Turksat 5A and 5B mutual interest to collaborate in Russian rocket Soyuz 2. commenced construction of CONNECTIVITY suitable for immediate GHz is available for increased by 38% to the areas of space technologies, Developed and manufactured 4-NGS. The Nigerian deployment of 5G services mobile services while the TL6.3bn ($0.769bn). space law and policies as well within a short period of time by a The new L-band satellite is Communications taking into consideration remaining 680 MHz (3.52 – Its total liabilities as human capital development. Saudi team of various engineering being built by Airbus and will offer Commission (NCC) and availability of device 4.2) GHz of the band is used related to the financing The signing was announced specialities in cooperation with higher capabilities and increase Nigerian Communications ecosystem with 60-70% by NigComSat (NG-1R) of the two satellites at the 13th session of the Abu KACST partners, Shaheen Sat is capacity and coverage across Satellite (NigComSat) have of global commercial 5G satellites. The commission increased by 52.2% to Dhabi-Singapore Joint Forum characterised by an imaging accuracy Europe, Africa, Central Asia and signed a Memorandum network deployment initiated a negotiation TL3.4bn ($0.415bn). (ADSJF), held virtually in March of up to 0.9 meters, a weight not the Middle East, enabling next- of Understanding (MoU) currently in the band, with NigComSat who in On a sectoral basis, under the co-chairmanship and exceeding 75 kg and dimensions up to generation mobility solutions for the use of C-band thus the importance of our estimate could make satellite services in the presence of Khaldoon 56 x 56 x 97 cm. It provides satellite for the government and other spectrum to boost 5G this spectrum for early some adjustment to its accounted for the Al Mubarak, Chairman of the images to government and private enterprises. Yahsat is aiming to services in Nigeria. deployment of 5G services satellite operation and highest EBITDA executive affairs authority of Abu sectors to serve the Kingdom’s expand its footprint globally with Professor Umar in Nigeria cannot be release part of its spectrum ($175.22m), followed Dhabi, and S. Iswaran, Minister- development goals. It is dedicated to a portfolio of several applications, Danbatta, Executive Vice overemphasised. However, holding in the band to by cable ($99.01m) and in-Charge of trade relations. photographing Earth and tracking services and solutions. Chairman (EVC) of NCC in Nigeria, only 120 MHz facilitate the deployment IT services ($28.09m). ships from low orbits. said: “C-band is most of the band (3.4 – 3.52) of 5G in Nigeria.”

08 09 UPDATE JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com

Inmarsat signs Greece and Turksat 5A enters orbit, Cyprus rep agreement with 5B to launch SRH Marine Electronics in Q4 2021 CHANGE THE WAY PARTNERSHIP Marine Electronics for Greek for ’s Fleet Network SATELLITE LAUNCH Inmarsat has signed an and Cypriot customers that Manager (formerly Sigma) Turksat 5A has entered agreement with SRH Marine will provide those customers portfolio of hardware orbit at 31 degrees East. Electronics for SRH to with full local representation products and only covers Testing has continued for YOU THINK ABOUT provide formal representation going forward.” clients who held Inmarsat a month following which for support to customers The agreement will Maritime contracts the satellite will become in Greece and Cyprus, include customer support formerly with Speedcast. operational, covering whose Inmarsat Maritime Turkey and Europe, the MAKING MEDIA contracts were purchased Middle East, North Africa, from Speedcast by Inmarsat Mid-Western and South at the beginning of this year. Africa as well as the Ronald Spithout, Mediterranean, Aegean President, Inmarsat and Black Seas. Maritime, said: “Following 5A will use the new Ku- the rapid and successful Band in TV broadcasting migration of the services and data communication of all these customers as services. The satellite part of the agreement with will be able to offer such Speedcast, we are now services for over 30 years delighted to have put in thanks to an electric propulsion system. place a formal agreement for Ronald Spithout, President, Inmarsat Maritime. customer support with SRH

Ooredoo EgSA inks deals with three universities appoints its SPACE provide opportunities for educational laboratories Egyptian Space Agency students to understand to support satellite first female (EgSA) has signed deals and explore the design technology development. CEO in Oman with two universities and workings of satellites. The agreement will ensure for various projects. It Likewise, EgSA has the development of three APPOINTMENT signed an agreement with signed a £6m agreement educational laboratories Ooredoo has appointed Alexandria University with Benha University in the University campus DISCOVER LIMITLESS POSSIBILIITES Al-Sulaiti as CEO (AU) to create an to build a CubeSat. Both located in Benha, WITH THE TRUE POWER OF ELASTIC COMPUTE of Ooredoo Oman, educational laboratory at institutions will be looking Mochtohor, and Shubra. making her the first the academic institution’s at optimising the scientific In addition, EgSA Free yourself from the constraints of existing workflows with the revolutionary Faculty of Engineering. and material possibilities also recently signed woman appointed to this new GV AMPP. Fully software-based and powered by microservices that deliver position in one of the The agreement is of research centres, an agreement with the unprecedented functionality and the flexibility to instantly spin resources up group’s main markets. part of the framework laboratories, workshops Higher Institute of Al-Sulaiti has been in for various Egyptian and talents in the area Engineering – Thebes or down and pay as you go – even in live production environments. the telecoms industry universities to develop of space technologies. Academy to support the 100% resource utilization – only pay for what you use for 17 years, and recently space sciences and EgSA and Benha University to develop held the position of technologies that can University also signed graduates capable of Truly distributed workflows – produce and manage content from anywhere, even home! CEO of . bring about sustainable a cooperation protocol making a difference in Easily run in the cloud, on premises or hybrid scenarios development. It will also agreement to develop the space industry. GV AMPP Change Everything! Find out more at grassvalley.com/gvampp Agile Media Processing Platform 10 Copyright © 2021 Grass Valley . All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice.

GV_AMPP_207x270-2021.indd 1 10/03/2021 11:25:58 COVER STORY JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com COVER STORY

ARABSAT EXTENDS ITS REACH No satellite operator in the MENA satellite space wields as much power and influence as Arabsat, which was founded in 1976. Arabsat has been serving the growing needs of the Arab world and beyond for 45 years, with a full spectrum of broadcast, telecommunications and broadband services It recently released a satellite penetration study, and SatellitePro brings you the details

The MENA region 4% are split equally between we are glad to be able to share all has long been a Arabs and other nationalities. those learnings and trends with unique broadcasting Arabsat, founded in 1976, has our customers and partners in environment, with periodically undertaken such webinars and customer workshops. more than 1,100 surveys to get a clear understanding “It was an interesting journey. A free-to-air channels available, of the markets it operates in very challenging journey, especially offering almost unlimited choice. and to see how to better serve with Covid-19. This research They are primarily broadcast its customers and viewers. enables us to continuously offer via satellite, by far the leading “The main purpose of this study enhanced products and services distribution platform here. This is is to make sure we have the right to our customers and partners. reinforced in a study undertaken by offering of channels and services, This time, however, the study had Arabsat, one of the leading satellite maximising the benefits for our a broader scope and scale. Under operators in the Arab world, broadcast customers and partners, the research expertise of IPSOS, with a strong presence across the while at the same time continuously the study included not just the 22 Middle East, Africa and Europe. improving viewer experience countries in the Arab region but The MENA Satellite Penetration and use value for the Arabsat TV also reached out to other Arab study, conducted in 2020 with audience,” says Badih Kanaan, communities in Europe and Africa. research specialist IPSOS, shows Director Marketing, Arabsat. “Together with IPSOS, that satellite continues to enjoy “The study also provides we explored all satellite TV a 97% market share, despite the business-relevant updates on the aspects, including the potential uptake of IPTV and streaming latest changes in market behaviour, of complementary or substitute services. The majority of MENA viewer socio-demographics, technologies and other players in TV viewers, who are young, viewing preference and TV the market. We are very proud of are loyal to satellite TV and use household readiness for next- this study, because it was perhaps streaming services to complement generation TV services. These the most comprehensive one we their on-demand viewing data and facts are a valuable have conducted for Arabsat, and we experience. The study also shows source for the strategic planning are looking forward to sharing our that satellite TV viewers are largely of our customers as well as for findings with our customer base.” citizens (96%); the remaining our own strategic initiatives, and According to the study, the

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vast majority of MENA viewers How well-known is Arabsat in the MENA region? exclusively via Arabsat satellites.” Saudi Arabia is 2019, whereby it secured – almost 80% – are under 44 One reason for Arabsat’s and migrated all of the top years old, and at least 45% are exceptional success is its one of our key Lebanese channels to its satellite under 30, which illustrates the strict adherence to the exclusively, causing a mass shift strong sustainable relevance cultural sensitivities of the markets, and we are in viewership in the country. of satellite TV in MENA. Arab world, making it the clearly leading there “Particularly in the Levant, The paucity of broadband in 60M ‘family members’ choice’. we did a survey before the the region, except in the wealthier 77% “The content we carry on our with access to 90% of the shift of channels and another GCC countries, and satellite’s MENA HOMES WITH satellites is in perfect harmony satellite TV households. one after, and found that we’ve ability to reach remote parts of MENA HOMES AWARE ARABSAT AS THEIR with the values and traditions enjoyed at least 20% increase the Arab world where fibre and of the Arab world,” explains in Lebanon since the migration. OF ARABSAT SATELLITE TV Out of these, at least 9% other infrastructure are minimal, PROVIDER Sami Mobarah, Arabsat Product More importantly, this shift has means satellite remains the main Marketing Manager. “Arabsat or 523,000 homes watch impacted adjacent markets like mode of content distribution, was one of the members who Arabsat exclusively” Jordan, where we enjoyed a 10% entertainment and even internet defined the Arab States Charter increase. We still believe that access. As a result, operators for Satellite TV. This charter is Laith Alani, Head of Product Sales – there will be larger differences if have a powerful position, with reflected in all Arabsat contracts, Broadcasting Services, Arabsat we conduct further measurement Arabsat enjoying a large share of Arabsat’s position in the GCC region so our video hotspot is the safest again. And this is quite a significant the pie in several Arab markets. for all families. We are also part of which comes to 238,000 homes. achievement, as we trust that the Arabsat owns and operates the Arab League, which makes us “No other operator in the Lebanese content and channels seven satellites at three orbital the first choice for governmental region enjoys this exclusive are one of the top most-watched positions, 20°, 26° and 30.5° and national TVs in the region.” market share, making Arabsat across MENA,” Alani explains. East: Arabsat-5C (20°E), BADR- In the Levant region plus Iraq the leading regional satellite Arabsat also leads in Iran’s 4, BADR-5, BADR-6, BADR-7 88% 7.6M and Iran, 77% of homes have operator in Lebanon. This has broadcast space. The satellite (26°E), Arabsat-5A and Arabsat-6A access to Arabsat, with 26.8m also led to a positive impact on operator has access to 97% (30.5°E). Coverage spans more GCC HOMES THAT USE GCC HOMES WITH satellite TV homes choosing it adjacent markets like Jordan, of the Iranian TV market, than 100 countries, including the SATELLITE SERVICES ARABSAT AS THEIR as their preferred satellite TV where viewership has increased which totals around 22.34m MENA, Europe and Central Asia, FROM ARABSAT SATELLITE TV service provider, the study shows. by 11% just after the Lebanese satellite-connected homes. with more than 650 TV channels PROVIDER It has had a majority market share channels shifted exclusively North African countries also and 270 radio stations. Arabsat’s in Lebanon since January 2020, to Arabsat,” explains Alani. have an impressive uptake of video ‘hotspot’ at 26°E alone caters where it caters to 860,000 satellite Alani attributes the success Arabsat channels, with 53% of to more than 288m MENA viewers, TV homes and 78% viewership in Lebanon to a strategy satellite TV households signed transmitting more than 50% of – 22% exclusively on Arabsat, that concluded in December up, meaning 10.1m TV homes, its TV channels in HD or 4K. Arabia, where it is the first choice we are clearly leading there with There is extra good news in for more than 5.25m households. access to 90% of the satellite Percentage of households with access to Arabsat the research for Arabsat – 77% Laith Alani, Head of Product TV households. Out of these, at of MENA homes are aware of Sales – Broadcasting Services, least 9% or 523,000 homes watch 100% the brand, and 58% have chosen Arabsat, elaborates: “Saudi Arabia Arabsat exclusively. We are also 97 98 it as their satellite provider. is one of our key markets, and further improving in other Gulf 90 91 With 103m satellite TV homes countries despite the increased 80% 78 in MENA, this means at least The main purpose offerings and initiatives from IPTV 60m of them use Arabsat’s TV and OTT players, particularly in 68 60% services, whether exclusively or of this study is to those fast flourishing countries, along with other TV services. where the infrastructure developed Three main factors are make sure we have in the new suburbs creates a fertile 40% responsible for Arabsat’s success, the right offering of ground for such applications to according to the research: technical thrive. Not only in Saudi Arabia, 20% robustness, programme selection channels and services, but overall, we have maintained and family members’ choice. maximising the benefits our success in the GCC, where In the GCC, 88% of homes we enjoy 88% viewership. And use satellite services provided by for our broadcast thanks to the great support Iran

Arabsat, with at least 7.6m homes and loyalty of our customers, Algeria Djibouti getting their TV this way. There customers and partners” we have logged over 813,000 Lebanon Badih Kanaan, Director Marketing, Arabsat Mauritania has also been great success in Saudi homes watching programmes Saudi Arabia

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and Alani says Arabsat has prime and local languages, are position in some African markets – The content we English, French and Turkish. Algeria, Mauritania and Djibouti. carry on our “Such information is very In the latter two especially, valuable for our customers Arabsat caters to the majority satellites is in perfect targeting specific audience of satellite-connected homes, harmony with the groups,” explains Alani. “We also with 98% of Djibouti and 91% of have Urdu and Hindi, which is Mauritania having access. The values and traditions expected because of the content operator serves 34% of 95,000 being broadcast over satellites satellite homes exclusively in of the Arab world” as well as the larger community Djibouti, and 30% of 740,000 in Sami Mobarah, Product from India, Pakistan and Mauritania. In Algeria too, Arabsat Marketing Manager, Arabsat Southeast Asia countries residing has penetrated the market with here in this part of MENA.” 68% of satellite homes, which increase in some markets over One other important factor is amounts to 4.8m households. others. Thankfully, we have the significant uptake of HD in the “In this study, we found that no declines and although we market. Arabsat currently carries Arabsat’s overall position increased are satisfied with this growth, more than 230 HD channels. by at least 30% since the last time we are looking forward to new At least 50% of TV channels on we did a large-scale measurement ways to grow in the future.” its 26°E orbital location are in like this one, which was around The study also reveals that HD or 4K. Badih Kanaan says five years ago,” explains Alani. the most-watched languages the strategy during the last five “We have seen tremendous for TV viewing, besides Arabic years has been to attract the most-watched channels – where HD penetration in MENA households possible, exclusively in HD. “77% of TV sets in the MENA region are flatscreen. 56% of TV Arabsat has introduced initiatives to encourage sets in the MENA region are in broadcasters to move to HD broadcasting. HD format. Additionally, 6% of TV sets in the region are in can afford HD transmission yet, clear strategy for our upcoming 4K format while at least 40% but we have introduced initiatives We recently signed satellites and the replacement 75% 58% of homes have smart TVs.” to encourage broadcasters a contract for the of existing satellites”. While the Gulf region has to upgrade their content by “We recently signed a contract SET-TOP BOXES TELEVISIONS a very high uptake of HD set- providing them attractive pricing new BADR-8 satellite, for the new BADR-8 satellite, IN THE GULF REGION IN THE MENA REGION top boxes (75%), at least 56% models or supporting them which will bring new which will bring new high- IN HD FORMAT IN HD/UHD of MENA viewers have HD with equipment to encourage performance growth capacity FORMAT receivers and at least 21% have HD broadcasting. Also, Arabsat high-performance to the market, especially in the replaced their receivers in signed a partnership with broadcasting segment. We have the last year. This impressive leading broadcasters such as growth capacity to the other plans as well to enhance growth has led HD to become MBC and Rotana to broadcast market, especially in the the products and services we a mass market service, with their channels exclusively on are bringing to the market.” satellite leading and seamlessly HD format, and this helped broadcasting segment. Kanaan adds: “In many regions enabling the best picture quality increase the consumer and countries, our satellite fleet across the whole region. demand for HD receivers. We also have plans ... to is also already used to enable Sami Mobarah says penetration “After HD, UHD will be the enhance the products seamless deployment and will further accelerate as HD next technology to bring an and services we are growth of internet connectivity 230 50% receivers and television sets even further enhanced viewing and IP-centric file, data and become more affordable. experience to MENA. In support bringing to the market” content delivery. We are studying HD CHANNELS TV CHANNELS ON “The main factors that of this, we are closely working the market, exploring new Badih Kanaan, Director Marketing, Arabsat PROVIDED BY ARABSAT ARABSAT’S 26E ORBIT influence the uptake of new together with our customers technologies and new trends, and NEIGHBOURHOOD IN THAT ARE HD OR 4K technology within a market and partners to align technology, we are confident we will have a THE MENA MARKET would be the availability of provide expertise, build most most suitable for the uptake new portfolio of very attractive exclusive content, the availability efficient distribution workflows of UHD in the future.” and future-ready services of HD TVs and availability of HD and processes, and calibrate Kanaan adds that Arabsat for our clients and partners receivers. Not all of our clients business models, making them has already “put in place a available at the right time.”

16 17 INTERVIEW JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com INTERVIEW

customers contemplating migrating to 5G. Ericsson is now upgrading Thuraya’s existing network - and CREATING THE soon we will be able to offer wide- ranging 4G and 5G services in the near future. While our competitors have fixed plans for space and ROADMAP ground, Thuraya has the capacity to adapt the technical specifications of its offering in accordance to market and customer requirements. FOR GREATER As a company, Thuraya is developing solutions with futuristic and versatile applications for the IoT and M2M markets. They COMMUNICATIONS include transportation and logistics, He is young, bold and a dynamic thought leader, ready to take smart grids, and highly secure government communications — Yahsat to the next level as CEO of the company. Ali Al Hashemi specifically Defense and Battlefield Communications. Among its talks to SatellitePro ME about Yahsat’s sixth satellite, the operator’s existing defence portfolio, Thuraya increasing focus on improving its communications services and its is developing satellite capabilities for ground, sea and aero platforms plan to build some satellite components within the UAE with a particular focus on Search and Rescue, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), for Tell us more about with the new satellite? Who allowing a wide range of data rates manned and unmanned scenarios. your sixth satellite are the contractors and (up to 1 Mbps) and is flexible enough CEO Ali Al Hashemi says the launch. Why do when will this be ready? to support a diverse portfolio new satellite will boost the Does Yahsat have plans to focus you need a sixth Thuraya 4-NGS is a GEO satellite, of products, ranging from very company’s growth within the more on the broadcasting mobile satcom industry. satellite now? which is being developed in small IoT devices and handhelds side or the comms side? The USD 500m Thuraya 4-NGS partnership with Airbus, with an to portable data terminals. Our primary focus as a global programme sets the pace for the next intent to increase the flexibility, Overall, we are incredibly excited long-standing partnerships with Despite the satellite services operator is on the phase of Yahsat’s growth - across efficiency, and capabilities of the about the outcome and look forward the UAE Armed Forces and other communication services we provide our core markets in the Middle East, Yahsat fleet, which in turn will to sharing more insights as we national initiatives support our global downturn, and collaborations with industry Africa, Europe and West Asia. At the support our long-term ventures and mark new programme milestones. fundamental commitment to create leaders to deliver premium, best-in- heart of this ambitious programme growth within the mobile satcom new opportunities for all Emiratis. At we reached record class solutions. At the same time, we is a new L-band satellite system industry. It is based on the high We hear there are plans to make the same time, these collaborations profitability levels in are catering to broadcasters through that will significantly build the power, all-electric Airbus Eurostar some satellite components are going to contribute to the Yahlive, our joint venture with the capabilities and reach of the next Neo platform that is synonymous within the UAE itself? growth and diversification of our 2020, maintaining satellite broadcasting company SES. generation of mobility solutions with superior reliability, security, Yes, this is true. In February this nation’s economy in a very big way. Yahlive broadcasts television offered by our MSS subsidiary, robustness and resilience. year, we signed a Memorandum healthy cash flows and channels across MENA, South Thuraya. Scheduled for launch The satellite has a 12-metre of Understanding with Tawazun As someone who is also a strong balance sheet” West Asia and Europe, offering a in late 2023, this sixth satellite is L-band antenna and a payload with Economic Council to set up a new responsible for Thuraya, diverse choice of premium HD and a significant step forward in the on-board processing providing company that will produce critical how do you see the world Ali Al Hashemi, CEO, Yahsat SD free-to-air TV channels to more diversification of Yahsat’s strategic advanced routing flexibility of up satcom technologies within the of 5G communications and than 50 million households. With interests and a testament to our to 3200 channels with dynamic UAE. This entity will develop, test, satellite coming together? growth with the emergence of 5G its favourable look angle, Yahlive’s commitment to create bigger and power allocation over a large and manufacture advanced satellite Thuraya’s main goal is to develop communications and its adoption unique East beam segregates the better opportunities for partners and number of spot beams. Once communication solutions, utilizing mobility solutions that will into our ambitions and strategies. Middle East from Europe and North end customers alike. operational, it will support more local and international expertise. make satellite communications We have certainly anticipated Africa, permitting broadcasters Thuraya 4-NGS signals our intent than three times the number of Aside from manufacturing, accessible to everyone, so we can the arrival of 5G. One of the to tailor their content for specific to innovate and evolve the industry users in comparison to traditional the company will also enrich be sure that the world always reasons why we commissioned and targeted audiences. landscape constantly. MSS satellites. The system ensures local talent through R&D and stays connected. As part of this, the Thuraya 4-NGS Satellite is So, our topmost priorities What will be the main focus advanced performance capabilities, knowledge sharing. Yahsat’s we see strong opportunities for to accommodate the needs of now are Thuraya, fleet expansion

18 19 INTERVIEW JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com INTERVIEW

support e-learning initiatives across of services, but also through the team of motivated individuals who Will you be exhibiting at CABSAT? the country - thereby helping partnerships that we undertake and are totally committed to realizing our If yes, can you elaborate on some remote students complete their the opportunities that we identify. objectives, and together we will fulfil of your plans at the event? 2020 academic curriculum. Fully Through our partnership with the mission for Yahsat and the UAE. The changing media landscape conceived and managed by Emirati Tawazun, we wish to manufacture has altered not only consumer engineers, this has been a resounding satcom solutions within the UAE Every head of a company has behaviours but also the mechanisms success. The free internet used by to meet growing national needs something that they would like employed by broadcasters for students is powered by our flagship and also work in tandem with to improve or change within content distribution. Service YahClick broadband service. international customers to drive a company. What, for you, is providers have to guarantee not However, we are eager to growth on a commercial level. that one pet project at Yahsat? only reliability and reach, but also see how we can help address We have always keenly assessed One aspect of Yahsat that we want cost efficiencies. This year, we are the wider goals of the country any opportunity to enhance our to continue to build is reflected in showcasing YahClick, our high- during these challenging times. offering and the project with the actions we have taken during the performance broadband service, We have set our sights firmly on Tawazun exemplifies this. pandemic, and this is to honour our which has had a massive impact supporting the return of the nation commitment to elevating the lives of across Africa. It has made high-speed to its pre-COVID position and What are some of the challenges the citizens and residents of the UAE. satellite connectivity affordable, fulfilling the goals outlined in Abu ahead of you as CEO of Yahsat Recently we engaged in a number of placing it within the reach of home Yahsat has partnered with Tawazun with the intention of manufacturing some Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. and how do you hope to address partnerships with key humanitarian users and small businesses. satcom solutions within the UAE to meet national needs and work them differently perhaps organisations as well as high- Another highlight is DhabiSat, with international customers to drive growth on a commercial level. How do you see the coronavirus from your predecessors? level decision-makers to establish the second student-built CubeSat outbreak and its impact on I envision challenges as programmes that provide crucial from Yahsat Space Lab, which and consolidation of our satellite our strong financial clout but also perhaps some of the verticals opportunities. The more we can satellite communications solutions will be launched into orbit broadband business, especially in Yahsat’s insulation from the shocks compelling the satellite industry test our limits and capabilities, and connectivity to those in need. from the International Space the government sector. As regards of an unstable global economy to change its strategy? the more we will learn about Within this, we are also Station (ISS) in late May. broadcasting, we will continue to On a non-business level, The satellite industry has withstood ourselves. Every leader has a unique determined to drive social change build our existing asset - Yahlive - it has also been a time to give the effects of the pandemic relatively perspective and style of working. and increase the opportunities for Any exclusive information, while seeking new opportunities and back to our nation. In 2020, we well, with a few key verticals like All my predecessors have left students to engage in advanced details of partnerships or partnerships conducive to growth. collaborated with the UAE Ministry Energy, Maritime and Enterprise their enduring mark on Yahsat’s scientific specializations such as other things that you want to of Education (MoE) and the Abu having been impacted. As a result, DNA, and I hope to do the same. the Yahsat Space Programme, share and I failed to ask? Was Yahsat impacted by Dhabi Department of Education the landscape has altered, we Today, we have a clear vision of which is the premier Master’s We have entered into an agreement Covid-19 and if yes, how? and Knowledge (ADEK) to provide certainly have been influenced where we want to be in the long- curriculum in the Middle East, with the UAE-based Emirates Red Like most companies, we felt the free satellite internet services to by the changing trends that term, and how to reach there. I head fully focused on space systems Crescent (ERC) Authority to enable impact of COVID-19. But it has dictate our current strategies. a highly efficient and disciplined and related technologies. satellite connectivity to strengthen also revealed our resilience as a COVID-19 has influenced how their community operations, company and an inherent capacity Yahsat Space Lab governments manage their internal especially in the fields of education to adapt. Yes, we saw challenges is gearing up to and external communications. and humanitarian relief. ERC will to our working practices, and We have seen a greater reliance optimise their vital support for have had to quickly reorient our launch the DhabiSat on connectivity to administer and vulnerable communities — over approach — like most others — by ensure the continuity of services, high-speed satellite broadband enabling our employees to work CubeSat into orbit support migration to new platforms, connections enabled by YahClick. securely and effectively from home. from the International and allow remote operations to Yahsat Space Lab is gearing up Despite the global downturn, take place uninterrupted. NGOs to launch the DhabiSat CubeSat we reached record profitability Space Station. Built have never had a more critical role into orbit from the International levels in 2020, maintaining by the students of to play in recovery; the education Space Station. Built by the students healthy cash flows and a strong sector has been mostly shaped by of Khalifa University under the balance sheet. Additionally, we Khalifa University remote learning and other segments guidance of our technology experts, implemented major operational like healthcare, financial services DhabiSat is a key milestone for and infrastructure improvements, under the guidance and defense has had to adapt to the us. We are truly inspired by young including the half-a-billion dollar of our technology current circumstances in order to talent so passionate about realising programme for Thuraya in order meet the needs of those they serve. their vision for space, and will to ensure long-term stability and experts, DhabiSat is a Ultimately, our objective is to continue to support their success profitability. The launch of Thuraya’s key milestone for us” drive greater global connectivity, by providing the required expertise satellite programme in a pandemic and we seek to meet this goal not Thuraya 4-NGS is a GEO satellite, which is being developed in partnership with Airbus. and educational infrastructure they year has not only demonstrated Ali Al Hashemi, CEO, Yahsat only with our current portfolio need in order to grow and thrive.

20 21 AVIATION JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com AVIATION

pandemic. The answers given by ability to track and operate with INFLIGHT airlines, service providers, and both GEO and LEO satellites will Original Equipment Manufacturers enable airlines to leverage these (OEMs) reflect our own analysis: opportunities. Also, a new class IFC is seen as a way to increase of powerful software-defined brand loyalty while saving on OPEX. satellites that will launch over the CONNECTIVITY 65% of respondents think that there next few years will allow capacity will be an increase in the number of to be instantaneously reconfigured inflight passengers who expect to be and repositioned in response to connected, while 85% believe that ever-changing customer demand. “quality” inflight connectivity is a Space innovation such as in- key differentiating factor for airlines. orbit servicing technology and Remote, work-based applications Mission Extension Vehicles (MEV) such as video conferencing, cloud also serves as a cost-effective tool computing and VPN onboard are Passengers expect to repair and extend the life of expected to become part of the the same level of otherwise healthy, high-performing onboard experience. However, satellites. These mission-extension respondents identified challenges connectivity onboard services represent a smart and that could prevent passengers efficient way to maintain existing from taking full advantage of these a plane that they have fleets, preserve customers trends: prices and poor connection. in their living room” uninterrupted experience and free But, with consumer demand for up even more resources to invest IN A POST- in-flight internet expected to grow Dave Bijur, Intelsat Commercial Aviation in advanced, next-generation by double digits (10%) annually technologies. The types of missions over the next decade, airlines to market for customers. these satellite-preserving vehicles will be eager to develop modern While there are some may be capable of managing in COVID WORLD ways to differentiate themselves discussions on the performance of the near future could open many and attract loyal customers. Ku- and Ka-bands, their availability possibilities. Already, MEV-1 has While the aviation industry has been badly hit by the Covid Advancing digitalised and use to the aviation industry, enabled Intelsat 901 to return to operations will give operators the truth is that it has no impact on service in April 2020, while Intelsat pandemic, the vaccination roll-out that has been kicked off by the agility they need to address passengers – who only care about 10-02 will soon get an extra five these new challenges but only if a reliable connection during their years of life thanks to MEV-2. many countries around the world gives us some hope that we leveraged through an integrated, flight – or airlines, who typically However, innovation cannot connectivity-ready ecosystem. pay the bills. Global constellations only be space-based. Continued might get back to some normality and see an increased need for Satellite solutions help respond of Ku-band satellites combine investment and development inflight connectivity, says Dave Bijur of Intelsat to these challenges by enabling wide-beam and spot-beam, should also include higher- robust inflight connectivity, even ensuring a depth of coverage that capacity servers, more efficient when flying at full capacity over provides end users with resiliency and higher-throughput modems, The industry is As lockdowns were imposed that will transform the way we the busiest airport hubs and along and redundancy unavailable in Ka- as well as more optimal antennas. gearing up for a new around the world, people’s reliance connect - even during a flight. the most congested routes. band. Switching between these Ku- With in-flight connectivity season as vaccine on digital technology skyrocketed, Passengers expect the same level of Next-generation, software- band options to direct capacity to rapidly becoming a must-have rollouts give people and global internet traffic surged connectivity onboard a plane that defined satellites will enable where it is needed most is possible for passengers for operational greater confidence by nearly 40% between February they have in their living-room, and to dynamically adjust capacity because of the open architecture optimisation, ensuring connectivity to travel. New routes are being and April 2020, according to the airlines have to adapt to respond to configurations and utilisation compatibility between Ku-band when and where airlines need operated, airlines are adding International Energy Agency (IEA). the needs of the new digital adepts while the satellites are in orbit, HTS and wide-beam satellites – an it is of critical importance. more flights and, for the first time When it comes to connectivity, we have become accustomed to significantly improving the unequivocal advantage for airlines Satellite innovations, combined since the pandemic began, we’ve differences between generations over the past 12 months in order to economic equation for customers, whose passengers expect reliable with market leading terminal seen more customers purchasing have been dramatically reduced increase passenger satisfaction. and making networks even more inflight connectivity at all times. technology, ensure that airlines no our monthly subscription than since the beginning of the Anticipating these evolutions, flexible, accessible, relevant The way forward, to respond longer need to make trade-offs on have cancelled it. With pandemic, expectations have Intelsat recently conducted a survey and cost-effective for them. to the growing demand and speed, reliability, availability, or anticipating demand for 2,945 increased, and mobility is no longer on Inflight Connectivity (IFC) to The integration of the right mix take advantage of augmentation coverage for in-flight internet. new aircraft in the Middle East seen as an obstacle. That’s a trend understand how inflight internet of technologies will enhance opportunities, is to rely on multi- over the next two decades, we expect will continue with demand and service requirements networks and power the new orbit constellations. Only an Dave Bijur is SVP of Intelsat the future seems brighter. the deployment of 5G networks have changed in light of the managed services brought aeronautical solution that has the Commercial Aviation

22 23 LAST WORD JUNE 2021 satelliteprome.com

NEW SATELLITES ARE INEFFECTIVE WITHOUT THE RIGHT GROUND TECHNOLOGY

The Covid-19 outbreak massive user base, and markets. M2M end-to-end interaction, with the compelled more people The key features that the antenna important presence of a cloud-based to work remotely. This, sector is focusing on are being compact, system in order to process data. The in turn, triggered a flexible, and adaptable so they can be inclusion of ground technologies will total transformation placed on any surface, totally customised make a huge difference, not only in within the satellite industry, driving a for mobility, air, land, and maritime time-to-market, but also in optimisation, revolution. COVID-19 also exposed the scenarios. Antennas that are flexible and the use of resources. It will lower digital divide and when connectivity to ensure no human touch, require OPEX and make satellite services more was needed, the satellite industry intelligence and smart software to be affordable and mainstream. This is got down to work, launching new managed. Otherwise, their use will be especially true within the mobility sector, satellites into the LEO orbit. similar to a parabolic old-fashioned which is now a big concern and a priority. LEO constellations open the door antenna, without the possibility to work Indeed, ground software will become to real-time connectivity, any time efficiently in this new space revolution. a key enabler to manage new antennas and everywhere. LEO and MEO The aim of the integration between and make all the network management constellations will bring about a great new, small satellites of LEO constellations process automated end-to-end. Having array of connectivity possibilities as and the new antennas, is to enable software integrated with the ACU enables the new constellations use higher automation and better network the possibility of adjusting the antenna on frequencies, such as Q and V bands, lower performance. As the new constellations the fly to a real-time need and ensuring latency, and higher throughput, and are formed of a larger number of satellites, that a remote setup is always on and gain. Perhaps their greatest advantage the design and link budget calculations maintained. The flexibility that these will be the automation of the network, must also be accurate for providing new solutions bring is essential not only (happening on the ground) which will reliable links, wherever the user and because of the current situation where enable them to have total automation satellite position are at a particular social distancing has become standard but in the design, deployment, monitoring time. The new paradigm will require because of the prevailing travel difficulties and maintenance of the network. the constant link budget calculation as for installation and maintenance. In order to make the most out of coverage is fully limited The COVID-19 outbreak has these new developments in space, the and the service needs to be accurate in accelerated the inclusion of these ground terminal has an essential role order to provide an excellent SLA. The new developments in the satellite to play in making automation happen, extension of each mega constellation and telecommunications industry. A with the added value tools. A great deal will be determined by the design connected world is not a utopia, but of investment will be concentrated on and architecture of the network. the combination of LEO constellations developing the type of antennas that can Disruptive technical innovations and ground technologies will enable receive and transmit satellite signals, within the ground segment are less full coverage and real-time operations. efficiently in these constellations. The common than in the space segment LEO companies will move towards focus here will be the need to track because it is not mandatory within the bankruptcy if they do not adopt the multiple satellites simultaneously, as former to have an automated process right ground technology. well as ensure fast deployment and as a human was always required. The seamless maintenance, enabling a new ecosystem, however, is based on an Alvaro Sánchez is CEO of Integrasys.

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