Astrium Wins Skynet 5 Replacement Contract

Astrium ­ the space and satellite joint venture between EADS and BAE Systems ­ has been contracted by Paradigm to replace the UK MoD's Skynet satellite communication system. Skynet 4 is giving way to the new, integrated Skynet 5 and Astrium has been involved in the new system from the outset, conducting five years of concept studies. Astrium's Eurostar 3000 satellite bus provides the basis for Skynet 5. This new contract will secure a substantial employment future for Astrium's UK workforce.