SSL to provide transformational ultra high-density satellite for Hughes Network Systems

PALO ALTO, Calif. MacDonald, Dettwiler, and Associates Ltd. subsidiary Space Systems Loral (SSL) in Palo Alto, Calif., won a contract to provide a JUPITER 3 transformational Ultra High Density Satellite (UHDS) to Hughes Network Systems LLC. The satellite, to be designated EchoStar XXIV, is designed to provide more concentrated capacity over high-use areas than any other satellite and will power future generations of Hughes consumer, enterprise, and aeronautical services across the Americas, according to SSL officials.

The EchoStar XXIV/JUPITER 3 Ultra High Density Satellite will feature an entirely new architecture based on a broad range of technology advances, including the miniaturization of electronics, solid-state amplifiers, and more efficient antenna designs. SSL has patented 18 technology advances that were incorporated into the spacecraft design, enabling it to provide highly concentrated capacity in critical areas.

Contract award demonstrates commitment to investments in next-generation technologies to support future communications satellite industry operating requirements

"SSL is a trusted partner with exceptional engineering talent and a commitment to making high-speed communications more accessible around the world," says Pradman Kaul, president of Hughes Network Systems. "EchoStar XXIV/JUPITER 3 will deliver unprecedented levels of service by concentrating capacity where the users are. The demand for broadband capacity only continues to increase and, with this satellite, Hughes will be able to deliver more speed, more data, and more advanced features for consumer, enterprise, aeronautical, and community Wi-Fi customers across the Americas."

SSL has a history of putting broadband capacity on orbit, and previously provided Hughes with record-breaking, high-throughput satellites in 2016 and in 2012.

"The new capabilities that we have developed will underpin the next generation of satellite systems that will serve the increasing consumption of data around the world," says SSL Group President Dario Zamarian. "This breakthrough in performance demonstrates our commitment to broadening the markets that we serve. It also demonstrates the success of our internal research and development programs, which will help ensure that space continues to be an essential part of the world's networking and telecommunications infrastructure and will help drive the next wave of growth in the sector."

Hughes Network Systems LLC provides broadband satellite technology and services for home and office. Its flagship high-speed satellite Internet service is HughesNet, the world's largest satellite network with over 1 million residential and business customers across North and South America. For large enterprises and governments, the company's HughesON managed network services provide complete connectivity solutions employing an optimized mix of satellite and terrestrial technologies.

The JUPITER System is a widely deployed High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) platform, operating on more than 20 satellites by leading service providers, delivering a wide range of broadband enterprise, mobility and cellular backhaul applications. To date, Hughes has shipped more than 6 million terminals to customers in over 100 countries, representing approximately 50 percent market share, and its technology is powering broadband services to aircraft around the world. Headquartered outside Washington, D.C., in Germantown, Maryland, USA, Hughes operates sales and support offices worldwide, and is a wholly owned subsidiary of EchoStar Corporation (NASDAQ:SATS), a global provider of satellite operations.

Space Systems Loral (SSL) is a provider of commercial satellites with broad expertise to support satellite operators and innovative space-related missions. The company designs and manufactures spacecraft for services such as direct-to-home television, video content distribution, broadband internet, mobile communications, and Earth observation. As a Silicon Valley innovator for 60 years, SSL's advanced product line also includes state-of-the-art small satellites, and sophisticated robotics and automation solutions for remote operations.

SSL MDA Holdings is a wholly owned subsidiary of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (MDA) and serves as the operating company for all MDA businesses. SSL MDA Holdings has its headquarters in San Francisco.

MDA is a global communications and information company providing operational solutions to commercial and government organizations worldwide. MDA's business is focused on markets and customers with strong repeat business potential, primarily in the Communications sector and the Surveillance and Intelligence sector. In addition, the Company conducts a significant amount of advanced technology development. MDA's established global customer base is served by more than 4,800 employees operating from 15 locations in the United States, Canada, and internationally.

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