Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates-based satellite services provider Thuraya has announced its third satellite Thuraya-3 is ready for commercial use, WAM news agency reported Wednesday. Now subscribers will be able to use their Thuraya satellite phones in nearly 170 countries.

The geosynchronous satellite, which was sent up by Sea Launch this January, had undergone rigorous technical testing prior to its commercial launch.

The expanded reach provided by the new satellite would enable Thuraya to cover the Asia Pacific region and bring two billion more people under its coverage.

"This is another step by Thuraya towards becoming a multi-regional mobile satellite operator serving millions around the world. We are looking forward to offering our services and solutions to the people and businesses in all East Asian markets," said Thuraya CEO Yusuf Al Sayed.

"Our continued coverage expansion will provide our existing subscribers great advantage and flexibility to use their Thuraya phones in nearly 170 countries," he added.