Posted: Thu, Jan 5, 2006, 7:35 AM ET (1235 GMT)
Launch services provider Arianespace said Wednesday that it has won a contract to launch a military communications satellite and also reported a small profit in 2005. Arianespace said it signed a contract with EADS Astrium for the launch of the Skynet 5C satellite on an Ariane 5 in 2008. Arianespace previously won the contracts for the launch of Skynet 5A and 5B. The three satellites will be operated by Paradigm Secure Communications Ltd. under an agreement with the UK Ministry of Defence to provide military communications. Paradigm decided late last year to build a third satellite rather than purchase insurance for its first two satellites. The contract announcement came the same day that the company said it earned €1.05 billion (US$1.27 billion) in revenue in 2005, with a profit of "several" million euros, according to Space News. Arianespace is planning five to six Ariane 5 launches in 2006.

Related Links:

•  Space News article (subscription required)
•  AFX article
•  Arianespace press release about Skynet contract
•  Arianespace press release about 2005 sales