The I-8 satellites will replace 4F1 satellites. The second is yet to be contracted.

According to Inmarsat, SouthPAN will improve positioning accuracy to as little as 10 centimetres. Early Open Services have been available since September 2022.

The satellites will provide redundancy and resilience in SouthPAN to ensure continuous broadcast of signals, enabling the development and use of critical applications relying on its highly accurate positioning.

These satellites will also be a critical part of a safety-of-life-certified SouthPAN for aviation and other applications, scheduled for 2028.

These services will be accessed or used by end users engaged in operations where life could be at risk, like landing an aircraft.

“SouthPAN represents extraordinary potential for the region. It can save lives by enabling precision safety tracking, help farmers improve productivity through automated device tracking, or even support transport management systems of the future,” said Inmarsat Global Government president Todd McDonell.