Satellite antennas

Allgon takes first order for supply of Satellite Antennas with Hughes Network Systems for Thuraya Allgon has signed a contract with Hughes Network Systems. Allgon will supply Satellite Hand Terminal Antennas for a minimum initial amount of USD 3 million. The first shipment will start in late 1999. Delivery of the satellite terminal antenna to Hughes Network Systems will commence late 1999, and is scheduled to run through 2000-2001, with options for extension as the market situation develops. The antennas will be used in a satellite-based mobile communications system known as Thuraya. The system utilises one geostationary satellite located about 36,000 km above the earth with a coverage area encompassing Europe, North and Central Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Hughes and Allgon have cooperated to develop a combined handheld terminal and antenna which is one of the smallest on the market for satellite communications systems. We are particularly pleased to receive this order from Hughes Network Systems for the terminal antennas for the Thuraya system, as is it the first commercial order we have received for this type of new technology, says Torsten Körsell, President of Allgon. We are involved in a number of other development projects for international satellite communications systems, and we therefore believe that this represents an important new business for Allgon, he adds. The Satellite Antenna Group within Allgon started in mid 1997 and is now engaged in most major satellite communications projects over the world. The primary contract is between Thuraya Satellite Telecommunications Company based in the United Arab Emirates and satellite systems manufacturer Hughes Space and Communications Company, which will provide two high-power HS-GEM (for geosynchronous-mobile) satellites, launch of the first spacecraft in March 2000, ground facilities and user handsets. Hughes Network Systems is a subcontractor to Hughes Space and Communications Company. For further information please contact: Claes Silfverstolpe Telephone: +46-8-540 822 32 Chief Financial Officer, Allgon AB Email: claes.silfverstolpe@allgon.se