Ruslan International has transported the ARSAT-2 satellite from Bariloche (Argentina) to Cayenne on behalf of ARSAT, the Argentine government satellite operator.

The launch of ARSAT-2 at the Guiana Space Centre is a step towards seeing an array of telecommunications services such as television, telephone and Internet access delivered across South America.

Ruslan International was contracted to undertake this project as a follow-up to its delivery of ARSAT-1 in 2014. The carrier used an AN124-100 aircraft to transport the satellite.

Weighing over 35,000 kilogrammes, the cargo needed to be processed and handled as quickly and carefully as possible, with Guiana Space Centre having a strict schedule for delivery acceptance, preparation and launch.

In attendance were a number of delegates from the government of Argentina, top management representatives from ARSAT and INVAP, the Argentine technology manufacturer commissioned to build both ARSAT-1 and ARSAT-2.