Advantech Satellite Networks, an established vendor and global market leader of broadband satellite communications systems announced here at the Africacom Conference and Exhibition that it will now be doing business as Spacebridge Inc.

The company provides satellite equipment and services for deploying satellite communication networks: VSAT HUBs, VSAT Terminals in Point-to-Point, Point-to-Multi-Point, mesh topologies as well as SCPC and broadcast modems.

HISPASAT, the Spanish satellite communications operator, leader in the distribution of content in Spanish and Portuguese, has announced the call for entries for the second edition of the Hispasat 4K International Film Festival, one the first festivals in the world entirely dedicated to short films, shot and post-produced in 4K.

Arabsat and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) today announced contracts for Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] to manufacture two A2100 communications satellites. In conjunction with the award, Lockheed Martin, KACST and TAQNIA Space Company, a subsidiary of the Saudi Technology Investment and Development Company (TAQNIA), signed an agreement to explore future design, manufacture, assembly and integration of satellites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Spacecom (Tel Aviv Stock Exchange: SCC), the operator of the AMOS satellite fleet, today announced that it is focusing more capacity to Nepal on the AMOS-4 satellite located at the 65°E prime orbital position. In the aftermath of Saturday's enormously deadly earthquake, many service providers have been disabled. Spacecom is offering capacity Free of Charge to emergency responders in Nepal, and throughout the affected region. Additionally, the satellite operator is adding capacity on AMOS-4 for SNG operators in the region to enable them to quickly resume their businesses.

RSCC's Express-AM6 satellite has completed in-orbit testing and is now operational.  Located at 53˚ E, one of RSCC’s key orbital slots, the Express-AM6 satellite will provide reliable coverage of Russia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

The addition of Express-AM6 to RSCC’s satellite constellation bring the total number of satelllites in operation to 11, including seven satellites of the Express-AM series and two DBS satellites of the Express-AT series.

At the 2015 NAB Show in Las Vegas, six leading satellite operators and manufacturers announced today the formation of the SAT>IP Alliance, formalising a coalition that was initiated last year to develop compatible hardware and software for the SAT>IP technology. The SAT>IP Alliance consists of SES, HISPASAT, Panasonic, NAGRA, ALi Corporation and MaxLinear.

SES S.A. (NYSE Euronext Paris and Luxembourg Stock Exchange: SESG) announced today that the company has selected Arianespace to launch the powerful new hybrid communications satellite, SES-12, on board an Ariane 5 booster from the European Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana, during Q4 2017. This will be the 40th launch of an SES spacecraft on board an European Ariane launch vehicle.

ABS has expanded its presence in Johannesburg, South Africa and formed a new Sales liaison office to support its growing business in the Africa continent.

This new office will house the sales and technical members of the Africa team, which will work alongside the regional Middle East office based in Dubai. ABS Africa will be responsible for business development, local sales liaison services and customer support throughout this region, according to the company.

Newtec announced today at CommunicAsia 2014 that satellite operator Thaicom has installed Newtec technology (M6100 Broadcast Satellite Modulators) on the platform of Thaicom-6, enabling its satellite to provide TV Broadcasting services in both C-band and Ku-band to serve customers with the best value and viewing experience.

Thaicom, Thailand's leading satellite operator, has become the first in the Asia Pacific region to introduce commercial In-Flight Connectivity Services using Ku-band to provide broadband on commercial flights. The deal has been agreed with Thailand's number one premium low cost airline Nok Air, which last year transported nearly six million passengers. With 48,000 flights per year the carrier will provide broadband Wi-Fi services on many of its aircraft starting in August - ranging from Internet access to other complimentary services in the future.