Yahsat, the Emirati satellite operator, has appointed SpaceX to launch its two new state-of-the-art geostationary communication satellites, Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5, under a $1.1 billion initiative.
The launches are planned for 2027 and 2028, employing SpaceX’s dependable Falcon 9 rockets. This decision represents a crucial advance in Yahsat's effort to expand its satellite communications network.
Overview of the Procurement Program
This contract is a key element of the AY4 and AY5 procurement initiative, which has an overall budget of AED3.9 billion ($1.06 billion). This funding covers the satellites themselves, supporting ground systems, launch expenses, and insurance policies. As part of a broader AED18.7 billion ($5.1 billion) mandate awarded in Q3 2023, Yahsat will provide satellite communication capacity and managed services for a 17-year period.
In June, Yahsat also secured a contract with Airbus Defence and Space to engineer and build the satellites based on the Eurostar Neo platform. This initiative reflects Yahsat’s commitment to delivering multi-orbit satellite solutions. As stated by Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat, “The agreements with SpaceX and Airbus solidify Yahsat’s position to fulfill its largest government contract, underpinning the Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5 programs.”
Satellite Features and Coverage
The Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5 spacecraft will provide secure government communications spanning the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. They will replace the earlier Al Yah 1 and Al Yah 2 satellites launched in 2011 and 2012, respectively, enhancing broadband service reliability and coverage.
Moreover, the June agreement with Airbus includes the production of two low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites built on Airbus’s Arrow platform. These LEO satellites will support Yahsat’s strategy of offering multi-orbit connectivity solutions.
Why SpaceX?
Though Yahsat has not publicly detailed its reasons for choosing SpaceX, the Falcon 9’s strong history of successful missions likely influenced the decision. While new launch vehicles like Ariane 6, New Glenn, H3, and Vulcan Centaur will be operational by 2027, their launch schedules are expected to be filled with existing commitments, possibly limiting availability.
Ali Al Hashemi expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying, “We are excited to team up with SpaceX for the Falcon 9 missions carrying our Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5 satellites.”
Implications and Future Outlook
The deployment of Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5 will notably increase Yahsat’s capabilities to deliver advanced satellite communication services. This aligns with their vision to grow a robust fleet equipped to meet rising demands for secure, dependable connectivity.
Continued collaboration with aerospace leaders like SpaceX and Airbus ensures Yahsat remains a pioneer in satellite tech. These new satellites will improve connectivity over vast regions and align with the UAE Government’s space and telecommunications ambitions.
By utilizing the trustworthy launch services of SpaceX, Yahsat is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious objectives and sustain premium satellite service offerings well into the future.
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