A Boeing-built 702 digital satellite called Amos-17 will provide ‘affordable Internet access and other communications services’ to under-served parts of Africa, as well as Europe and the Middle East.

Launched last month from Cape Canaveral in Florida, it will enter service in a few months after completing in-orbit tests and moving to its final position over Africa.

The satellite will deliver television, Internet and data services to a potential market comprising hundreds of millions of people.

With both fixed and steerable beams, the multi-band AMOS-17 satellite can provide continual service to long-term customers, while moving bandwidth to accommodate short-term demand for high-capacity throughput — for example, during special events or natural disasters.

Chris Johnson, president of Boeing Satellite Systems International Inc (www.boeing.com), said: “AMOS-17 is packed with innovations so that it can support many challenging missions.

"We are proud to support Spacecom in its use of satellite technology to bring services, promote economic development and foster a greater sense of connection to people around the world.

“The provision of the AMOS-17 satellite to Spacecom is just the latest milestone in Boeing’s nearly 70-year relationship with Israel.”