TOKYO, November 16, 2018 - Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) announced today that the Es'hail-2 communications satellite built by the company launched successfully from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, USA at 5:46 a.m. on November 16 (Japan time). The satellite separated from the launch vehicle without incident at 6:18 a.m. Following completion of in-orbit tests, the satellite is scheduled to be delivered to Doha-based Qatar Satellite Company (Es'hailSat) in January 2019.

Launch of Es'hail-2 (©SpaceX)

Mitsubishi Electric is the first Japanese satellite manufacturer to enter the Arab commercial communications satellite market.

With a more than 16-year design life, Es'hail-2 satellite will offer direct broadcasting services throughout the Middle East and North Africa of television stations. From the orbital position at 26 degrees east longitude, its Ku-band and Ka-band capabilities will also provide government communication services. Moreover, Es'hail-2 will provide the world's first geostationary amateur radio service.

Mitsubishi Electric is a leading manufacturer contributing to space research and development, having participated in the production of more than 500 Japanese and international satellites as the prime contractor or a major subcontractor. Mitsubishi Electric also delivered the ground systems and training services in order to provide Es'hailSat a full turnkey solution.

Note that the releases are accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.