Boeing Satellite Systems (BSS) and JSAT signed an agreement in April 2000 for a Boeing 601 model satellite. Known as JCSAT-8, the spacecraft is the seventh satellite ordered by JSAT from BSS. JCSAT-8 replaces JCSAT-2 at the orbital slot of 154 degrees East longitude. This will enable the new satellite to provide coverage to Japan, East Asia, Australia and Hawaii. The satellite was launched on March 28, 2002 aboard an Ariane 4 rocket.