Intelsat 14 will provide Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) for Intelsat, the world’s largest satellite services operator, and includes an Internet Router In Space (IRIS). The IRIS payload is part of a Department of Defense Joint Capabilities Technology Demonstration (JCTD) to assess the utility of a space-based computer processor that will enable U.S. military units and allied forces to communicate with one another using Internet protocol and existing ground equipment. The IRIS payload is expected to enhance satellite performance and reduce signal degradation from atmospheric conditions. Space Systems/Loral has been providing satellites to Intelsat for four decades, and Intelsat 14 will be the 44th Space Systems/Loral satellite built for Intelsat. In addition to the IRIS payload, the satellite has 40 C-band and 22 Ku-band transponders across four different beams, covering the Americas, Europe, and Africa. Based on the SS/L 1300 satellite bus, Intelsat 14 has 15 years design life and will replace the IS-1R satellite when it is delivered in 2009.