[Satellite TODAY 12-21-10] Intelsat has contracted SatLink Communications to provide Virtual Network Operator (VNO) end-to-end turnkey services based on the iDirect Evolution hub, SatLink announced Dec. 20.
    The long-term agreement enables Intelsat to provide uplink and IP services to clients in the Middle East from the Intelsat 15 satellite at the 85.2 degrees East orbital slot. Intelsat said that SatLink’s teleport services and strategic location would help the operator expand its geographic reach on multiple satellites and gain independent regional control over remote management markets.
    “SatLink’s iDirect Evolution, in combination with our advanced teleport infrastructure creates a classic win-win situation for Intelsat and its customers as well as for SatLink by allowing us to offer VNO services to other valued clients. With more than 100 secure, Earth stations located at the juncture of Africa, Asia and Europe, we are perfectly positioned to support global and regional telecoms and other satellite operators with a myriad of data services,” SatLink CEO David Hochner said in a statement.
    Financial and timeframe details of the contract were not disclosed.