Hughes Space and Communications International Inc. announced Thursday that Embratel of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has exercised an option for a fourth satellite from Hughes Space and Communications International.
Financial terms were not disclosed. The satellite is the 11th to be ordered from Hughes this year.
The new satellite, designated Brasilsat B-4, is a wide-body version of the HS 376 model satellite and matches the capabilities of Embratel’s three other spacecraft. Brasilsat B-4 will contain 28 C-band transponders to deliver voice, data, corporate networks and television service for a period of more than 12 years. Brasilsat B-4 is scheduled for launch in late 1999. Embratel will make launch-vehicle arrangements separately.
Hughes was awarded the initial contract in August 1990 for two spacecraft, Brasilsat B-1, launched in August 1994, and Brasilsat B-2, launched in March 1995. In December 1995, the option for a third satellite was exercised for Brasilsat B-3, which was launched in February 1998.
Hughes Space and Communications International is the international contracting organization of Hughes Space and Communications Co.
