Broadband provider Avanti Communications will launch its HYLAS 1 satellite in August 2010, the company has confirmed.

The firm, which has been busy agreeing service contracts with a number of major clients, revealed in a trading update that it will deliver the module to its launch site in July, with take-off scheduled for the following month.

Avanti will send HYLAS 1 into orbit using a dedicated Soyuz vehicle, after choosing it over a shared Ariane 5 alternative.

Should the launch proceed as planned, Avanti aims to provide its subscribers with satellite broadband services by September 2010.

David Williams, Chief Executive at the firm, said excitement was growing over the launch of Europe's first dedicated Ka band broadband satellite.

"I am pleased to demonstrate our success in filling up the satellite with some large contracts signed this month and others to be announced soon," he stated.

Back in December, Mr Williams confirmed that finance facilities had been agreed for the funding of the HYLAS 2 project, demonstrating the ambitious nature of Avanti's business strategy.