The Skynet 5C satellite will be capable of beaming communication signals between headquarters in the UK and British forces deployed around the world once initial testing is complete. Work is now beginning to correctly position the satellite in order to establish full operating capability.

Skynet 5C will be employed as an in-orbit reserve for Skynets 5A and 5B which were launched in 2007.

Baroness Taylor, Minister for Defence Equipment and Support said: "This important milestone is yet more good news for our armed forces. The Skynet 5 constellation is a huge step forward in data capacity. With the successful commissioning of Skynets 5A and 5B, and now the launch of Skynet 5C, we have a very significant improvement in our global communications systems and the means of assuring it.

"This Private Finance Initiative deal is an excellent example of the MoD and Industry very successfully working together."

With its world-beating antenna technology and far greater power and data rates, the Skynet 5 constellation provides a significant enhancement to operational capability for our forces.

It is also being used in the field of welfare services, to help provide free messages between service personnel on operations and their families and friends.

The satellite is the third of three to be launched under a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) programme worth over pound3 billion. The Ministry of Defence is working in partnership with service providers Paradigm Secure Communications, and EADS-Astrium who built the satellite itself.

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