Thales Alenia Space media statement: Thales Alenia Space andOrbital ATK deliver first two Iridium NEXT satellites

Thales Alenia Space and Orbital ATK have completed assembly of the first two Iridium NEXT satellites at Orbital ATK's facility in Gilbert, Arizona, since June, and have now shipped them to Vandenberg Air Force Base for launch. 

This delivery marks a major milestone for Iridium NEXT, a second-generation constellation that will provide global mobile communications services. It is also the culmination of many years of teamwork between Thales Alenia Space and partners from around the world.

Eight more satellites will join these first two in the first batch to be launched for this constellation. 

Working together for their customer Iridium, Thales Alenia Space and Orbital ATK have fully demonstrated their ability to meet this demanding challenge. They will continue to team up throughout the launch campaign. The next step is the first satellite/dispenser mating check, followed by propellant loading at the end of August.