Mini-VSAT Broadband Coverage in Ku-band and C-band. Photo: KVH

[Via Satellite 11-12-14] KVH Industries has significantly increased the capacity for its mini-VSAT Broadband network. The expanded capacity on key South American beams has resulted in as much as three times the forward and return link capacity for KVH’s maritime VSAT customers in the area, according to the company.

The upgrade has boosted coverage and performance for several key markets in Brazil: the oil and gas industry; tugboat and push boat traffic along the Amazon River; and the growing international tourism industry along the Amazon River. An additional upgrade has boosted coverage and performance for markets in other parts of South America, including: the salmon fishing industry in southern Chile; global merchant vessels in major ports on the Pacific coast of South America; and the mining industry throughout the continent.

“Increased merchant activity in South America is dependent on satellite communications to optimize operational efficiency and also help vessels increase their safety and security by means of connectivity from remote locations,” said Brent Bruun, executive vice president of KVH’s Mobile Broadband Group.

The mini-VSAT Broadband network covers 100% of the global maritime market through a combination of 19 Ku-band transponders and three C-band beams. KVH has built this global infrastructure by leasing available commercial satellite capacity, rather than investing in its own satellites, leading to lower costs and better prices for customers.