Abstract: A communications satellite uses a low level beam forming network connected to a hybrid matrix power amplifier section which has output ports connected to an array of radiating elements. Several beams emanate from the array and at least some of the elements are used in common for more than one beam to achieve beam overlap. The hybrid matrix power amplifier section which provides flexible power distribution, is formed of several relatively small hybrid matrix power amplifiers instead of a single relatively large one. This enables considerable advantages to be achieved, particularly dispensing with the requirement for port selection and reducing the size of the device, without compromising the performance.