In April 2008 satellite manufacturer Lockheed Martin was selected to build the third generation of Japanese Broadcasting Satellite System Corporation’s satellites. Designated BSAT-3b, the 1.8-kW satellite would provide direct broadcast services throughout Japan following its scheduled launch in Q4 of 2010.

BSAT-3b will comprise 12 130W Ku-band channels (8 operating at one time) and will be co-located with BSat-3a at 110° East longitude. With a design life of over 15 years, BSAT-3b is based on the award-winning A2100A platform manufactured by Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems (LMCSS), Newtown, Pa, USA. BSAT-3b marks the 13th Lockheed Martin satellite ordered in the 1- to 4-kW small-class satellite range.

BSat-3b was successfully launched on October 28^th, 2010 in a dual launch with Eutelsat West 3B satellite for satellite operator Eutelsat, on an Ariane 5ECA launch vehicle, operated by launch operator Arianespace.