As the deadline approaches, Thaicom has taken steps to reposition the EutelSat satellite, now named Thaicom 9A, to the 50.5° East orbital slot to retain Thailand’s rights to this position. This strategic shift will ensure Thailand’s continued access to crucial satellite resources.
Thaicom 9A’s Repositioning Strategy to Safeguard Thailand’s Orbital Rights
Meeting the November Deadline for Orbital Retention
To meet regulatory obligations, Thaicom is repositioning the 9A satellite to the 50.5°E orbit, with the deadline for this move set to expire on November 12. Patompob Suwansiri, Chief Executive of Thaicom, confirmed that TC Space Connect, a Thaicom subsidiary, secured the orbital rights last month with approval from the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC).
How Thaicom 9A’s Move Impacts Future Satellite Plans
Thaicom’s decision to shift the satellite from the 119.5°E orbit to 50.5°E reflects a focus on maintaining long-term orbital access. Thaicom has reassured stakeholders that this adjustment will not impact their ongoing investment plans, including the launch of additional satellites in 2025 and 2027.
The NBTC’s Role and Auction Strategy in Allocating Orbital Slots
TC Space Connect’s Exclusive Licence for the 50.5°E Slot
During an auction last month, NBTC granted TC Space Connect the exclusive licence for the 50.5°E orbit, making them the sole operator. However, NBTC plans to reissue the awards for the remaining slots, as applications for the 51°E and 142°E orbits did not meet regulatory standards.
Regulatory Process and Future Bidding
NBTC’s commissioner, Somphop Purivigraipong, indicated that TC Space Connect’s proposal for the 50.5°E slot was compliant, paving the way for Thaicom’s repositioning plans. A new bid process for the unassigned 51°E and 142°E slots will take place within the next 60 days, potentially expanding Thailand’s reach in orbital access.
Thaicom’s Future Investment in Satellite Expansion
The 15 Billion Baht Investment Plan
Thaicom’s board has greenlit a substantial 15 billion baht investment in the satellite sector, focusing on multiple orbital slots, including 119.5°E, which Thaicom 9 and 10 will occupy after Thaicom 9A’s shift to 50.5°E.
Launch Timeline and Satellite Deployment
Thaicom’s upcoming launch schedule includes:
- Thaicom 9A: First quarter of 2025
- Thaicom 9: Third quarter of 2025
- Thaicom 10: End of 2027
With this multi-satellite plan, Thaicom aims to secure its leading position in the geostationary satellite market, contributing to 98% of its current revenue.
Geostationary Satellite Operations and Revenue Diversification
Thaicom’s Dominance in the Satellite Market
Thaicom’s geostationary satellite operations form the backbone of its business, contributing nearly all of the company’s income. The recent decision to reposition Thaicom 9A is a pivotal move to protect this revenue stream and reinforce Thailand’s presence in space.
Future Revenue Growth Through Space Tech
Although the space tech division, which includes low-Earth orbit satellite operations and carbon credit management, currently makes up a small portion of revenue, Suwansiri expects it to grow significantly. In three years, space tech is projected to contribute 20% of Thaicom’s total income.
Conclusion: Thaicom Secures Thailand’s Future in Space
Thaicom’s proactive approach to repositioning Thaicom 9A solidifies Thailand’s orbital rights and demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a robust satellite infrastructure. With strategic investments and an expanding satellite portfolio, Thaicom is set to remain a key player in Asia’s satellite industry, ensuring continued connectivity and advancing space tech innovation in the years to come.
Ref – Thaiger
