Cabinet clears GSAT-15 and GSAT-16 communication satellites plans

New Delhi: The cabinet has approved GSAT-15 and GSAT-16 communication satellite projects to create an in-orbit spare capacity to meet any contingency and protect the services of existing users, Finance Minister P. Chidambaram said Friday. The GSAT-15 will provide required redundant capacity, augment capacity in the Ku band, and provide in-orbit redundant requirement of safety of life operations benefiting civil aviation services in the country at a cost of Rs.859.5 crore, including launch services, according to the minister.

Similarly, the SAT-16 will meet contingency requirements, protect services of existing users, and augment and support existing telecommunication, television, VSAT and other satellite based services in the country at a cost of Rs.865.5 crore, including launch services. IANS