The new Russian communications and broadcasting satellite Express-AM33 was successfully launched on January 28, 2008 at 0.18 GMT on board the Proton-M rocket with Briz-M acceleration propulsion system. the ground-based facilities of the RSCC’ Ground Control Centre monitor and control the satellite by putting the satellite onto the GEO and its following operation at 96.5 East.

Express-AM33 will be included into RSCC satellite constellation and placed at 96.5 East orbital slot.

This satellite features high power characteristics that will noticeable reduce ground equipment costs. Its steerable-beam antennas are best suited for varying market requirements.

Intended to cover Russia and the Asia-Pacific region, Express-AM33 with have a C-, Ku- and L-band payload, two fixed zone beams (C and Ku) and two steerable spot beams (Ku).

Ordered by RSCC, the Express-AM33/44 satellites are being built by NPO PM (Zheleznogorsk, Krasnoyarsk Territory) in cooperation with Alcatel Alenia Space France (AASF, Toulouse, France). The payload module is developed and manufactured by AASF.