Iran has started building the first indigenous telecommunications satellite to be launched into space in 2017, reported ISNA.
"Studies operations and designation process for building the satellite named "Qaem" are underway and some subsystems of the project have been specified so far," the Head of Iranian Space Agency (ISA) Hamid Fazeli told ISNA on Friday.
"The satellite meets Iran's telecommunications needs," he said adding that the country is to design and build sensing satellites of "Parsmehr" and "Pars2" as well.
"Qaem" with the expected lifespan of 15 years is to meet telecommunications, radio and TV needs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) needs.
Fazeli then noted Iran is to establish satellite launch base in its southeast which according to him is a highly secure place for the mission.
"Southeastern part of Iran lies against the Indian Ocean and poses no threat to people in Iran and neighboring countries," he continued.
Fazeli added appropriate location for the base has been finalized.