SKY Perfect JSAT contracts Thales Alenia Space for JSAT 32 satellite project

Written by Copernical Team Tuesday, 18 March 2025 10:01

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Paris, France (SPX) Mar 18, 2025

Asia's top satellite operator, SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation, has awarded Thales Alenia Space a contract to construct its latest geostationary satellite, JSAT-32. Set to operate on Ku and Ka bands, JSAT-32 will deliver enhanced communication services across Japan and nearby maritime regions. Notably, the satellite will introduce new spot beams specifically designed for mobility-related appl

SKY Perfect JSAT contracts Thales Alenia Space for JSAT 32 satellite project
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Mar 18, 2025

Asia's top satellite operator, SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation, has awarded Thales Alenia Space a contract to construct its latest geostationary satellite, JSAT-32.

Set to operate on Ku and Ka bands, JSAT-32 will deliver enhanced communication services across Japan and nearby maritime regions. Notably, the satellite will introduce new spot beams specifically designed for mobility-related applications. JSAT-32 is intended to replace current satellites in SKY Perfect JSAT's fleet, ensuring continuity of service for broadcasting and connectivity solutions.

Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), will take on the role of prime contractor. The company will handle all phases of the satellite's development, including its design, assembly, testing, and delivery to the launch site. Additionally, Thales Alenia Space will provide the supporting ground infrastructure. With a planned launch mass of 3.7 metric tons, JSAT-32 will be built on the company's dependable Spacebus 4000B2 platform, well-regarded for its reliability and rapid deployment capabilities. Launch is slated for 2027, with the satellite designed to remain operational in orbit for over 15 years.

"The procurement of JSAT-32 is part of our strategic investment, aligning with our long-term satellite fleet refresh plan," said SKY Perfect JSAT President and CEO Eiichi Yonekura. "With its additional Ka-band payload, JSAT-32 will enhance our ability to meet growing mobility demands, including national security needs. As we continue the procurement of JSAT-31, we look forward to leveraging Thales Alenia Space's proven technology and expertise."

"I would like to sincerely thank SKY Perfect JSAT for renewing its trust in our company," said Herve Derrey, CEO of Thales Alenia Space. "JSAT-32 is the second satellite we will deliver to SKY Perfect JSAT, after JSAT-31 ordered in 2024. This new contract further underscores the success of our robust and proven Spacebus 4000 product line, which has represented a total of 42 satellite programs, including 16 based on Spacebus 4000B2 product."

SKY Perfect JSAT, the largest operator of geostationary satellites in Asia, has provided broadcasting and connectivity services for over 35 years. Its Space Business spans coverage from North America to the Indian Ocean, supporting both commercial clients and governmental missions. The company continues to invest in Space Intelligence initiatives and non-terrestrial network (NTN) technologies, aiming to boost disaster resilience, national defense, and digital transformation in the region.