NSS-14 is the second satellite contract that SES NEW SKIES has awarded to SS/L and it is designed to be located at 338 degrees East, one of the most highly demanded orbital locations for trans-Atlantic traffic. The spacecraft is a state-of-the-art, hybrid C- and Ku-band satellite that includes SS/L's heritage ion propulsion system and a 15 year design life.

"SES NEW SKIES and Space Systems/Loral share a fundamental commitment to quality and performance," said Robert Bednarek, president and chief executive officer of SES NEW SKIES. "With NSS-12 proceeding on track we are pleased to embark on another project with the company that is the high-power satellite leader."

Space Systems/Loral currently has six 20-kW satellites under construction that are based on its highly flexible 1300 satellite platform. The 1300 bus, which is the basis for both NSS-12 and NSS-14 features qualified, flight proven subsystems and a long record of reliable operation. In all, SS/L satellites have amassed more than 1,400 years of reliable on-orbit service.

"As the demand for ubiquitous communications continues to proliferate, we are pleased to work with one of the world's leading FSS operators to provide state of the art infrastructure," said John Celli, president and chief operating officer of Space Systems/Loral. "We look forward to this new project with SES NEW SKIES and to helping the company meet its high level of commitment to its customers."

NSS-14 has been specifically designed for its orbital location, with C-band beams serving the eastern hemisphere of Europe/Africa, full America's coverage as well as a Global beam to support mobile and maritime customers. Four high-power, regional Ku-band beams will provide service to Europe/Middle East, West Africa, North America and South America with extensive cross-strapping between C- and Ku-band transponders providing enhanced connectivity.

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