Abu Dhabi's Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat) plans to deploy two additional satellites in 2027 and 2028, aiming to provide secure governmental communications spanning the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia.
Although the precise launch dates are still pending confirmation, the satellites – designated as Al Yah 4 (slated for 2027) and Al Yah 5 (scheduled for 2028) – are expected to have a service life of 15 years, replacing Al Yah 1 and Al Yah 2 launched in 2011 and 2012, respectively. This was disclosed by Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat group, who emphasized that these new satellites are pivotal to augmenting Yahsat's capabilities in space-based communications, enabling the provision of advanced solutions to the UAE government.
Al Hashemi further explained that Airbus, a European multinational aerospace conglomerate, will be responsible for designing and constructing the AY4 and AY5 satellites using the Eurostar Neo platform, known for its adaptability across various missions. Each satellite will feature flexible payloads that can be reconfigured in-orbit, allowing for dynamic adjustments to coverage, capacity, and frequency to address changing mission needs.
The total expenditure for AY4 and AY5, encompassing satellites, ground infrastructure, launch, and insurance, is projected to be Dh3.9 billion. Yahsat will initially finance the project with its own funds before receiving Dh3.7 billion from the UAE government as an advance payment.
In parallel, Airbus has announced the development of the Thuraya 4 satellite (T4) for Yahsat, which will also utilize the Eurostar Neo platform. T4 is set for launch in the latter half of 2024 and is expected to commence operations in the second half of 2025.
