Intelsat has deployed Intelsat CellBackhaul, an end-to-end managed service aimed at helping Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) provide 4G and 5G broadband across the United States and especially in rural areas, the company announced Thursday. 

Intelsat said this service will expand the coverage area of MNOs, and is also a service they can use for network densification, and backup coverage. It includes network-design consultation; connectivity from the MNO’s cell sites to their core network over Intelsat’s integrated space and ground network; satellite antenna, modem, additional equipment installation and maintenance options; Guaranteed Service Level Agreements (SLAs); and network-operations support.

This new service announcement comes a week after the major operator filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Regardless, Intelsat plans to expand CellBackhaul service rollouts to mobile operators in additional regions, including Africa, in late 2020.

“We innovate to help our customers connect more people, places, and devices they otherwise would not be able to connect, and we do that on a global scale,” said Intelsat’s Director of Product Management for Networks, Gerry Collins. “Our service will enable our U.S. mobile network operators to quickly and cost-effectively expand their coverage and bring connectivity into unserved and underserved areas, including many previously considered unreachable or unprofitable.”