U.S. Air Force awards contract option to SSL

SSL to continue concept development for next generation protected military satellite communications

PALO ALTO, CA, Aug. 8, 2013 /CNW/ - Space Systems/Loral (SSL) a leading provider of commercial satellites, today announced that it was awarded a contract option by the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center (SMC) to continue developing and demonstrating affordable design concepts for next generation Protected Military Satellite Communications (MILSATCOM).

"Our extensive history in developing satellite communications systems positions SSL well to take a fresh look at affordable ways to provide advanced communications capability to the warfighter," said Eric Spittle, president, SSL Federal. "The award of this contract option is an excellent endorsement of our success in the first phase of the concept exploration process."

SSL has many years of success addressing changing requirements in mobile communications, broadband, and high definition video broadcasting within the budget and schedule constraints of the commercial marketplace.  For SMC's future Protected MILSATCOM efforts, SSL is leveraging this experience to develop cost-effective solutions for secure SATCOM connectivity for highly mobile platforms such as remotely piloted aircrafts and ground command and control vehicles operating in contested environments.

About SSL

SSL, a subsidiary of MDA, has a long history of delivering reliable satellites and spacecraft systems for commercial and government customers around the world.  As a leading provider of commercial satellites, the company works closely with satellite operators to provide spacecraft for a broad range of services including television and radio distribution, digital audio radio, broadband Internet, and mobile communications.  Billions of people around the world depend on SSL satellites every day.  For more information, visit www.ssloral.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. In addition, the Company conducts a significant amount of advanced technology development.

MDA's well-established global customer base is served by more than 4,500 employees operating from 11 offices located in the United States, Canada, and internationally.

MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.'s (MDA) common shares trade under the symbol TSX:MDA.

Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements and information, which reflect the current view of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. and its subsidiaries ("MDA" or the "Company") with respect to future events and financial performance.  The forward-looking statements in this regard include statements regarding the award of a government contract.  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 any government agency 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, but are not limited to: 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.

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.

The Toronto Stock Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the form or content of this release.

 

SOURCE: MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.

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Wendy Keyzer
MDA External Relations
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