COM DEV International Ltd has been awarded an Authorization to Proceed (ATP) contract from MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates to work on a project to deliver Ku-band and Ka-band multiplexers, switches and microwave components.

The funding release of $5.1 million is to cover the initial engineering and procurement activities.

The components will be used for a communications satellite which is expected to launch in 2014 and will enhance the capacity of an existing satellite constellation.

The full contract value is expected to be in excess of $11 million with an option for a replacement flight set for an additional amount in excess of $10 million.

Work will be carried out at the Company's facility in Cambridge, Ontario with completion of the original flight set expected by November 2013.

"We are pleased to have been awarded this contract from one of our long-term customers," stated Mike Williams, President of COM DEV International Products.

"This reflects our acknowledged expertise in providing communication satellite components with the highest quality and efficiency and the continued trends in the marketplace for increased capacity."