Arianespace selected to launch first Brazilian government satellite, SGDC

September 9, 2013

Brazilian company Visiona Tecnologia Espacial S.A., a joint venture between Telebras Telecomunicações Brasileiras S.A. and Embraer Defense & Security, has selected Arianespace to launch the Geostationary Defense and Strategic Communications Satellite (SGDC), the country's first satellite dedicated to strategic communications for the Ministry of Defense, and the deployment of broadband services for the Ministry of Telecommunications.

Brazil's Geostationary Defense and Strategic Communications Satellite (SGDC) will be launched by an Ariane 5 in 2016 from the Guiana Space Center, Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. This choice once again proves that Arianespace's launch services are the best solution for all satellite operators.

SGDC will be the 12th satellite orbited by Arianespace for Brazilian operators.
The SGDC satellite will be built by Thales Alenia Space, and will weigh more than 5,800 kg at launch. It offers a design life exceeding 15 years. Fitted with X and Ka-band transponders, the satellite will provide both civil and military telecommunications services from its orbital position at 75 degrees West. The five X-band transponders will cover all of South America and neighboring maritime routes. The Ka-band payload will offer isolated villages in Brazil access to high-quality broadband services at an affordable price.

Arianespace Chairman and CEO Stéphane Israël said: "Arianespace is particularly proud of this opportunity to serve the Brazilian government, Visiona, Telebras and Embraer, and to contribute to a project that harbors tremendous significance for Brazil. Our 12th contract with Brazil clearly reflects the competitiveness of our launch services. Ariane 5 offers unrivaled reliability and availability, and Brazil's decision to opt for European technology is the best proof of our capabilities. I would also like to pay tribute to the Brazilian government for launching this project, which will reduce the digital divide across all of Brazil."