16th May 2014 14:55
LONDON (Alliance News) - Inmarsat PLC Friday warned that the launch of two of its satellites is likely to be delayed after the launchpad vehicle failed.
In a statement, Inmarsat, which has a contract with International Launch Services for the launch of two Inmarsat-5 satellites known as F2 and F3, said a proton launch vehicle failed shortly after lift-off on Thursday. This resulted in the loss of its satellite payload, Inmarsat said.
The company said the reason for the failure will be assessed, with a report expected in the next two months.
Inmarsat said it now expects a delay in the planned launch of both the F2 and F3 is likely, which would push back its so-called Global Xpress network of three satellites.
"However, the start of commercial GX services on a regional basis using F1, and F2 in due course, as well as existing customer commitments to purchase GX services, will not be impacted by any delay in global service availability," Inmarsat said in a statement.
"Inmarsat's existing L-band business is entirely unaffected by any GX launch delay and continues to trade in line with management expectations," Insmarsat said.
The first Inmarsat-5 satellite was launched using proton in December 2013 and remains on track to begin commercial operations in July, Inmarsat said.
Inmarsat shares were Friday quoted at 705.5 pence, down 0.7%.
By Samuel Agini; [email protected]; @samuelagini
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