International Launch Services (ILS) has seen its president and CEO Frank McKenna unexpectedly leave the company, with no explanation offered. A few hours after his departure ILS successfully launched EchoStar 16 into orbit from its launch site in Kazakhstan.

The ILS launch was flawless, and should further help restore confidence in the launch system which has suffered technical problems over the past year.

EchoStar 16 will be used by Dish Network from 61.5 degrees West for DTH services.

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