Satellite firm Avanti is to sell one of its geostationary communication satellites to Japanese satellite operator SKY Perfect JSAT.

SKY is purchasing one of Avanti's HYLAS 3 satellite. Terms of the deal were not shared.

Launched in 2019, the Ka-band satellite is expected to begin operations as JSAT-144D in early FY2027, providing coverage over in Asia, Europe, and Africa.

Eiichi Yonekura, SKY Perfect JSAT CEO, said: “The satellite communications market is undergoing profound transformation, driven by the entry of new players and growing demand for more advanced services.

"Through our collaboration with Avanti, we are further enhancing the flexibility and responsiveness of our satellite fleet, thereby strengthening our communications infrastructure to meet a wide range of needs, including those in the security sector. Leveraging our partnerships, we will continue to promote the development of sustainable and reliable space infrastructure, while creating long-term value and supporting continued business growth.”

The companies said the deal is part of SKY Perfect JSAT’s mid-to-long-term satellite fleet strategy, aimed at addressing growing demand for satellite communications, including in the national security domain.

Avanti Communications CEO, Kyle Whitehill, added: “We are delighted to partner with SKY Perfect JSAT on this important agreement for HYLAS 3. This transaction reflects the strength and reliability of Avanti’s Ka-band assets and highlights the growing strategic value of flexible satellite communications infrastructure in an evolving global market.”

Avanti operates three other HYLAS satellites (1, 2, and 4), the first of which launched in 2010. The company has not announced plans for a fifth HYLAS satellite.

JSAT was Japan’s first satellite company, and can trace its roots back to the 1980s and Japan Communications Satellite Company (JCSAT) and Satellite Japan Corporation. The company operates a fleet of 17 geostationary satellites offering coverage spanning North America to the Indian Ocean Region.

The company recently announced plans to establish a new teleport in Kumamoto, its first facility in the Kyushu region.