SSL-built communications satellite for SKY Perfect JSAT begins post-launch maneuvers according to plan

Palo Alto, CA - Space Systems Loral (SSL) a leading provider of innovative satellites and spacecraft systems, today announced that the JCSAT-15 satellite, which it designed and built for SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation (SKY Perfect JSAT), was launched yesterday and is successfully performing post-launch maneuvers according to plan. The satellite deployed its solar arrays on schedule following its launch aboard an Ariane 5 launch vehicle from the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. It will begin firing its main thruster later today in order to propel it toward its final geosynchronous orbit. The satellite will be used to provide broadcasting and communications services in Japan, Oceania, and the Indian Ocean Region.

“I would like to thank and congratulate the teams at SKY Perfect JSAT, Arianespace, and SSL whose hard work contributed to the successful launch of JCSAT-15,” said John Celli, president of SSL. “We are honored that SKY Perfect JSAT put its trust in SSL to provide three satellites for its updated fleet and we are pleased that all three were placed in orbit this year, as planned.”

Once it goes into service, JCSAT-15 will be called JCSAT-110A, as it will be located at 110 degrees East longitude where it will replace the N-SAT110 satellite as well as provide expansion capability. Operating in Ku-band, the satellite will be used to help broadcast the multichannel pay TV service SKY PerfecTV! in Japan, and will also provide data communications, and maritime and aviation applications for the Oceania and Indian Ocean Region.

“With its record of reliability, robustness and on time delivery, SSL has been an excellent partner in the expansion of our fleet,” said Shinji Takada, Representative Director, President and CEO of SKY Perfect JSAT. “Now that JCSAT-15 has been successfully launched, we look forward to offering our customers expanded Ultra HD, or 4K programming, and helping to fulfill the growing demand for mobile connections.”

JCSAT-15 is based on the highly flexible SSL 1300 platform, which has the capability to support a broad range of applications and technology advances. The satellite was launched together with a second SSL 1300 satellite built for Embratel Star One.

About SKY Perfect JSAT

SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation is a leader in the converging fields of broadcasting and communications. It is Asia’s largest satellite operator with a fleet of 17 satellites, and Japan’s only provider of both multi-channel pay TV broadcasting and satellite communications services. SKY Perfect JSAT delivers a broad range of entertainment through the SKY PerfecTV! platform, the most extensive in Japan with a total of 3 million subscribers. In addition, SKY Perfect JSAT’s satellite communications services, which cover Japan and the rest of Asia, as well as Oceania, Russia, Middle East, Hawaii and North America, play a vital role in supporting safety, security and convenience for society as a whole. For more information, please visit www.sptvjsat.com and www.jsat.net.

About SSL

SSL, a subsidiary of MDA, is a leading provider of commercial satellites with broad expertise to support satellite operators and innovative space related missions. The company designs and manufactures spacecraft for services such as direct-to-home television, video content distribution, broadband internet, mobile communications, and Earth observation. As a Silicon Valley innovator for more than 50 years, SSL’s advanced product line also includes state-of-the-art small satellites, and sophisticated robotics and automation solutions for remote operations. For more information, visit www.sslmda.com.

About MDA

MDA is a global communications and information company providing operational solutions to commercial and government organizations worldwide.

MDA's business is focused on markets and customers with strong repeat business potential, primarily in the Communications sector and the Surveillance and Intelligence sector. In addition, the Company conducts a significant amount of advanced technology development.

MDA's established global customer base is served by more than 4,800 employees operating from 15 locations in the United States, Canada, and internationally.

MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.'s (MDA) common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "MDA."

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