Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat) has selected SpaceX’s Falcon 9 to launch advanced satellite system, Thuraya 4-NGS.

Thuraya 4-NGS employs the latest satellite communications technologies and will expand Thuraya’s coverage across Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia and Africa.

SpaceX’s Falcon 9 was selected primarily due to its high reliability and advanced capabilities.

Thuraya 4-NGS is expected to spur Yahsat’s growth across new and existing product lines, with the new technology offering higher capabilities and flexibility while increasing capacity and coverage across Europe, Africa, Central Asia and the Middle East. Once operational in 2024, Thuraya 4-NGS will enable next-generation connectivity solutions for all customer segments, including defence, government and enterprise.

Ali Al Hashemi, group chief executive officer at Yahsat said: “We are delighted to be launching Thuraya 4-NGS with SpaceX. With their capability and capacity for multi-launch sites, we are confident that they are the right provider for us. The agreement marks a significant milestone for Yahsat as we continue to develop our technology-enabled infrastructure to prepare for the next stage of our growth.

“The UAE has established its position as a competitive player in the space industry by collaborating with global leaders such as SpaceX. At Yahsat, we will continue forging partnerships with the world’s most innovative companies to enhance our competitiveness, deliver on our ambitious growth and expansion plans, and continue to create value for our customers, shareholders and the UAE.”

“For launch of its advanced technology, Yahsat sought a reliable and high-performance ride to orbit. We’re proud it has selected Falcon 9, one of the world’s most frequently flown launch vehicles, and we look forward to a successful mission,” said SpaceX vice president of commercial sales Tom Ochinero.