Satellite dish on a roof in Ghana. Photo: Gazprom Space Systems

[Via Satellite 11-29-2016] Russian satellite operator Gazprom Space Systems has hooked up with Gilat Satellite Networks for a new capacity deal in Africa, Gazprom announced Nov. 29. Gilat will now start using satellite capacity on the Southern beam of the Yamal-402 satellite. The capacity will provide satellite telecommunication services based on Gilat SkyEdge 2-c technology in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Initially, the capacity on the Yamal-402 will be used to implement broadband internet connectivity in schools and will deliver services to mobile operators in rural areas of the Republic of Ghana. “We intend to further develop our joint business for providing services in Africa and other regions,” said Dmitry Sevastiyanov, director general of Gazprom Space Systems. “The partnership with Gilat Satellite Networks will further enforce our presence in the African market and will also involve enhancement of telecommunication infrastructure in Africa.”