EUTELSAT 115 West B, the first all-electric satellite of the Eutelsat Communications' (NYSE Euronext Paris: ETL) global fleet, has completed the ascent to geostationary orbit and today began in orbit tests. Eutelsat's new satellite is scheduled to enter full commercial service in mid-October, one month ahead of schedule.

EUTELSAT 115 West B is equipped with 24 C-band and 41.5 Ku-band equivalent transponders connected to beams covering Alaska, Canada, Mexico and South America, and will operate with exceptional elevation angles and coverage performances (EIRP) throughout the region.

The satellite will take Eutelsat's coverage of the Americas to new levels to offer cost-effective solutions for clients providing services that include broadband access, cellular backhaul, VSAT solutions and social connectivity.

Patricio Northland, CEO Eutelsat Americas, said: "I am delighted to announce that EUTELSAT 115 West B is now in geostationary orbit and will start commercial service one month ahead of schedule. This first all-electric satellite of our fleet is an important milestone towards our enhanced coverage of the Americas and a new example of how Eutelsat's commitment to innovation allows us to provide superior solutions to customers."

EUTELSAT 115 West B will be followed into orbit in early 2016 by the all-electric EUTELSAT 117 West B satellite that will be located at 117 West to boost capacity for Latin America broadcast markets.

EUTELSAT 65 West A, the third satellite in the expansion roadmap of Eutelsat Americas, is scheduled for launch in 2016 and will feature high-power coverage of Brazil and Latin America in C, Ku and Ka-bands.