As part of the Chula Unisearch study commissioned by the ministry, it advised bringing Thaicom’s two licensed satellites – Thaicom 7 and 8 – back under the ministry’s concession regime. The concession for Thaicom 6 expires in 2021 but its life span will continue for eight years after that. Thaicom also offered to help the government build up the state’s satellite system by capitalising on its long experience. The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission and the ministry have redundant roles in supervising the satellite service industry. The ministry oversees the Thaicom 4, 5 and 6 satellites, while the NBTC licenses and oversees Thaicom 7 and 8 and future Thaicom satellites.

Source: The Nation Bangkok January 18, 2017 18:04 UTC