SES ASTRA acquires the majority stake for a consideration of EUR 35.6 million. The transaction is subject to the necessary regulatory approvals. The purchase agreement also foresees a contingent additional consideration dependent on the award and value of a significant government contract opportunity. This additional consideration cannot exceed approximately 36 per cent of the definitive purchase price of EUR 35.6 million.

ND SatCom is a leading global supplier of satellite-based broadband network solutions for government customers, broadcasters and enterprises. It is based in Friedrichshafen, Germany, employs 240 people globally, has major regional centers in Abu Dhabi, Beijing and Dallas, Texas, and conducts business in over 130 countries. In 2005, it generated revenues of EUR 80 million of which approximately 70 per cent derived from the government sector.

Enhancing the government services offering is a key strategic objective of SES”, said Ferdinand Kayser, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SES ASTRA. The acquisition of ND SatCom allows SES ASTRA to enter the fast growing government sector.

As a leader in this sector, ND SatCom is very well positioned and rapidly grows its presence, mainly in the EMEA region, complementing the strong position of Americom Government Services (AGS) in North America. Through this transaction, we will provide a combined ground and space offering to the government sector and take advantage of the growth potential for our core infrastructure business, in particular the recently acquired New Skies assets.”

The acquisition of ND SatCom by SES ASTRA is a perfect strategic fit for both parties and will provide us with additional development opportunities”, said Karl Classen, CEO of ND SatCom. SES ASTRA has been a strategic investor in ND SatCom for many years and supported the development of the company into a leading international player. ND SatCom will represent a key element in SES ASTRA`s ambitions to increase its presence in the government sector and reinforce SES group`s global government activities.”

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