MoD Green Light for Third Skynet 5

Released on Tuesday, December 20, 2005

The Armed Forces will be able to rely on a third British built communications satellite as part of the SKYNET 5 PFI contract. The change will see the placing of three high-tech satellites in orbit instead of the original two, with the additional satellite providing 'back-up' for the system.

The contract period for the Skynet 5 program, which will deliver the next generation of military satellite communications to our forces across the globe, will be extended from 2018 to at least 2020, providing better value for money.

The revamped contract will ensure around 300 high tech jobs in the UK are safeguarded with costs for the extended capability essentially being met by savings from insurance costs and deferring the introduction of any subsequent systems.

One of the three satellites will assume the role of an in-orbit spare, providing a better risk balance approach in case one of the three satellites is lost during the launch phase, which completes at the end of 2008. The new deal also allows for the part-build of a fourth satellite in reserve. If a loss occurs, the fourth satellite will be built and launched, to ensure continuation of the three satellite approach. The program achieved its In Service Date a month ahead of schedule in February 2005.

The MOD service availability requirement has not changed. The provision of a third satellite will enable the PFI concession period to be extended, as satellite performance can be better managed on an overall constellation basis, and satellite life and capability can accommodate this. This means that the Armed Forces can look forward to extended capability under an already successful program.

Satellite communications are essential to support all aspects of modern military operations. They provide secure and flexible communications for maritime, air and land forces � much used in Op Telic. The first satellite is due to be launched in late 2006. Skynet 5 will provide very advanced and flexible Satcoms for UK Armed Forces, with capacity expected to be about 2.5 times greater than the existing system enabling users to send and receive information much more quickly.

Paradigm Secure Communications, which provides the service to the MoD, will be responsible for maintaining capacity. The satellites will be controlled from the UK and the service management will take place from a MoD site in Wiltshire.