Thaicom fleet suffers problems
July 13, 2026

By Chris Forrester



Thailand-based satellite operator Thaicom has problems with one of its satellites. The operator says that “component performance anomalies” are affecting Thaicom as well as four other operators who have bought or ordered satellites from San Francisco-based Astranis Space Technologies.

The four other satellites affected were two for Mexico (Apco-1 and Apco-2), a craft for Chunghwa Telecom and a satellite for MB Group of Oman.


Thaicom has listed the problems which included Circuit Board Components, as well as an anomaly on the craft’s power main board all affecting production and delivery of Thaicom 9. Reportedly Thaicom 9 was already 90 per cent complete when the power issue was discovered, and required a major reworking of the craft.

Thaicom has asked the ITU’s Radio Communications Board for an extension to its September 2026 launch obligations for Thaicom 9, which was initially expected to be launched around June/July this year.

The satellite operator said that “force majeure” now applied because of the specified problems, and requested an extension to the delivery/launch date.

Thaicom says that it believes Thaicom 9 could be launched by the end of March next year, and would enter orbit by the end of September next year and enter into service during October 2027.

The ITU has not made a decision but has asked Thaicom for more information and will then make a decision at its next meeting scheduled for October.