Eutelsat Communications will be re-deploying its Hot Bird 3 satellite at the 10 degrees east location and rebranding the unit Eurobird 10. Due to complete its mission at 13 degrees east when Hot Bird 8 makes its entry into service today, the satellite will begin its new mission sometime later this month.

Through the re-deployment, Eutelsat said it is attempting to boost its satellite resource at a strategic orbital position from where it can serve Europe, the Middle East, Africa and large parts of western central Asia. Via its W1 satellite at 10 degrees east, the company already provides video and data network services to blue chip clients like the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Associated Press (APTN) and Hughes Networks Systems.

According to the company, the arrival of Eurobird 10, alongside W1, will increase capacity for direct broadcast services to satellite homes and for satellite feeds to digital terrestrial television networks.

Designed for high-power transmission services to consumer and professional audiences, Eurobird 10 is equipped with 20 Ku band transponders which offer a high degree of in-orbit flexibility, Eutelsat said. For video markets in particular, this new resource at 10 degrees east will enable the company to support the development of high-definition television (HDTV) in Europe and the continued increase in standard digital channels.