In 2005 satellite manufacturer Lockheed Martin was selected to build the third generation of Japanese Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation’s satellites. Designated BSAT-3a, the 1.8-kW satellite would provide direct broadcast services throughout Japan following its scheduled launch in Q2 of 2007.

BSAT-3a will comprise 12 130W Ku-band channels (8 operating at one time) and will be located at 110° East longitude. With a design life of over 13 years, BSAT-3a is based on the award-winning A2100A platform manufactured by Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems (LMCSS), Newtown, Pa, USA. BSAT-3a marks the 12th Lockheed Martin satellite ordered in the 1- to 4-kW small-class satellite range.

In April 2008 a second spacecraft called BSat-3b was ordered with Lockheed Martin for a launch planned in 2010.

BSat-3a was successfully launched on August 14^th, 2007 in a dual launch with Spaceway-3 satellite for satellite operator Hughes Network Systems (EchoStar), on an Ariane 5ECA launch vehicle, operated by launch operator Arianespace.