Contract with Arianespace for INSAT-4G launch

New Delhi, Aug 9: To facilitate the timely launch of GSAT-8/INSAT-4G in 2008-09, the Union Cabinet today approved placement of a contract with Arianespace of Europe at a price not exceeding .5 million (Rs 297 crore).

The contract would have an option of additional launch and alos waiver of the bank guarantee requirements, Information and Broadcasting Minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi told reporters after the Cabinet meeting that gave the approval.

"GSAT-8/INSAT-4G will provide 18 high power Ku-band (DTH quality) transponders to the INSAT system along with the second geo stationary augmentation payload for the GPS and GEO augmented navigation," he said.

''This will facilitate a number of services in navigation, telecommunications, TV broadcasting and distribution, Ku-band VSAT, broadband services, digital video broadcast, rural areas communications and distance education,'' he said.

UNI