Eutelsat and Space Systems Loral test potential of Extremely High Frequencies (EHF) on EUTELSAT 65 West A as a blueprint for future broadband systems

PALO ALTO, CA, and PARIS, May 2, 2016 /CNW/ - Eutelsat Communications (NYSE Euronext Paris: ETL) and Space Systems Loral (SSL), have successfully carried out transmissions in Extremely High Frequencies (EHF) using an experimental payload flown into space on the EUTELSAT 65 West A satellite.

The two companies are analyzing the potential of the Q/V band (40-50 GHz) as an enabler of future Terabit satellite broadband programmes.  The data assembled will help steer the design of adaptive techniques and hub architectures that will shape the blueprint of future broadband communications systems.

Extremely High Frequencies stand to enhance the performance of the next generation of High Throughput Satellite programmes.  By offloading backhaul links between a satellite and its hubs from the Ka-band to the Q/V band, significantly more bandwidth can be made available for users and the number of hubs can be reduced, helping drive down cost per bit.

As one of the first commercial operators to test EHF communications, Eutelsat can gain advanced insight into the conditions and timetable for adopting enabling technologies that enhance the efficiency and cost effectiveness of future High Throughput satellites.

For SSL, the Q/V band demonstration is a step forward on its roadmap for implementing new technologies that will support next generation telecommunication solutions.

About Eutelsat Communications
Established in 1977, Eutelsat Communications (Euronext Paris: ETL, ISIN code: FR0010221234) is one of the world's leading and most experienced operators of communications satellites. The company provides capacity on 40 satellites to clients that include broadcasters and broadcasting associations, pay-TV operators, video, data and Internet service providers, enterprises and government agencies. Eutelsat's satellites provide ubiquitous coverage of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific and the Americas, enabling video, data, broadband and government communications to be established irrespective of a user's location. Headquartered in Paris, with offices and teleports around the globe, Eutelsat represents a workforce of 1,000 men and women from 37 countries who are experts in their fields and work with clients to deliver the highest quality of service.  For more about Eutelsat please visit www.eutelsat.com

About SSL

SSL, a subsidiary of MDA, is a leading provider of commercial satellites with broad expertise to support satellite operators and innovative space related missions.  The company designs and manufactures spacecraft for services such as direct-to-home television, video content distribution, broadband Internet, mobile communications, and Earth observation.  As a Silicon Valley innovator for more than 50 years, SSL's advanced product line also includes state-of-the-art small satellites, and sophisticated robotics and automation solutions for remote operations.  For more information, visit www.sslmda.com.

About MDA

MDA is a global communications and information company providing operational solutions to commercial and government organizations worldwide.

MDA's business is focused on markets and customers with strong repeat business potential, primarily in the Communications sector and the Surveillance and Intelligence sector. In addition, the Company conducts a significant amount of advanced technology development.

MDA's established global customer base is served by more than 4,800 employees operating from 11 locations in the United States, Canada, and internationally.

MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.'s (MDA) common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "MDA."

Related Websites
www.mdacorporation.com

Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements and information, which reflect the current view of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. ("MDA" or the "Company") with respect to future events, financial performance and operational capabilities.  The forward-looking statements in this regard include statements regarding the operational capabilities and future performance of certain elements of the Company's telecommunication technology.  Any such forward-looking statements are based on MDA's current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends. The factors and assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements in this release include contracts with existing customers not being terminated.  Any such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. MDA cautions readers that should certain risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary significantly from those expected. The risks that could cause actual results to differ from current expectations include changes in government priorities, mandates, policies, funding levels, contracts and regulations; failure of third parties and subcontractors; and failure of systems to meet performance requirements and technical standards and failure to anticipate changes in technology.

For additional information with respect to certain of these risks or factors, plus additional risks or factors, reference should be made to the Company's continuous disclosure materials filed from time to time with Canadian securities regulatory authorities, which are available online under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com or on the Company's website at www.mdacorporation.com.

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SOURCE MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.

Wendy Keyzer, MDA External Relations, [phone], [email protected]