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SKY Perfect JSAT Selects Thales Alenia Space to build “JSAT-32” Communications Satellite

Tokyo / Cannes, March 10 2025 – Asia’s largest satellite operator SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation (SKY Perfect JSAT) and Thales Alenia Space, the joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), have announced the signing of a contract to build geostationary communications satellite “JSAT-32”.

Operating in the Ku and Ka frequency bands, JSAT-32 will provide coverage over Japan and its surrounding seas, with newly added spot beams for mobility applications. JSAT-32 will serve as a future replacement for existing SKY Perfect JSAT satellites that provide communication and distribution services in Japan. 

jsat-32_copyright_thales_alenia_space_briot

JSAT-32 ©Thales Alenia Space/Briot 

As prime contractor, Thales Alenia Space will be responsible for the design, manufacturing, testing and delivery of the satellite to the designated launch pad. The company will also provide the associated ground segment. With a launch mass of 3.7 tons, JSAT-32 will be built on Thales Alenia Space’s Spacebus 4000B2 platform, renowned for its robustness, reliability and time-to-market efficiency. The satellite is scheduled for launch in 2027, and will be designed to have an in-orbit lifetime of 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 Hervé 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.”

JSAT-32 Summary

1.    Satellite Bus    
Thales Alenia Space : SpaceBus 4000B2

2.    Satellite Specifications    
(1) Frequency bands : Ku and Ka
(2) Primary coverage : Japan
(3) Target launch date : 2027
(4) Service life : more than 15 years

Related Links

May 27, 2024 News Release: SKY Perfect JSAT selects Thales Alenia Space to build a new cutting-edge software-defined satellite "JSAT-31"
SKY Perfect JSAT selects Thales Alenia Space to build a new cutting-edge software-defined satellite “JSAT-31” | Thales Alenia Space 

About SKY Perfect JSAT

Asia's largest geostationary satellite operator, SKY Perfect JSAT, has been delivering reliable communications and broadcasting solutions for over 35 years. Our Space Business provides satellite coverage from North America to the Indian Ocean, supporting both commercial and government connectivity needs. We are expanding our Space Intelligence Business by leveraging satellite data and developing the non-terrestrial network "Universal NTN" to enhance connectivity, contribute to disaster preparedness and national security, and advance toward a super-smart society. In the Media Business, we operate the "SKY PerfecTV!" multi-channel Pay-TV platform in Japan and are extending our services through the Fiber-optic Alliance Business and tailored Media Solutions. We're also exploring Connected TV and Web3 to drive growth in the evolving media landscape.
SKY Perfect JSAT Group Website: www.skyperfectjsat.space/en
Space Business Website: www.skyperfectjsat.space/jsat/en/

About THALES ALENIA SPACE

Drawing on over 40 years of experience and a unique combination of skills, expertise and cultures, Thales Alenia Space delivers cost-effective solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental management, exploration, science and orbital infrastructures. Governments and private industry alike count on Thales Alenia Space to design satellite-based systems that provide anytime, anywhere connections and positioning, monitor our planet, enhance management of its resources, and explore our Solar System and beyond. Thales Alenia Space sees space as a new horizon, helping to build a better, more sustainable life on Earth. A joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), Thales Alenia Space also teams up with Telespazio to form the parent companies’ Space Alliance, which offers a complete range of services. Thales Alenia Space posted consolidated revenues of approximately 2.2 billion euros in 2023 and has around 8,600 employees in 16 sites in 8 countries across Europe. www.thalesaleniaspace.com 

THALES ALENIA SPACE – PRESS CONTACTS 

Tarik Lahlou
Tel: +33 (0)6 87 95 89 56    
tarik.lahlou@thalesaleniaspace.com

Catherine des Arcis
Tel: +33 (0)6 78 64 63 97
catherine.des-arcis@thalesaleniaspace.com

Cinzia Marcanio
Tel.: +39 (0)6 415 126 85
cinzia.marcanio@thalesaleniaspace.com