Mobile Solar Reach 3G diagram. Photo: Intelsat.

Intelsat and Gilat Satellite Networks announced a joint managed services solution to provide 3G infrastructure in the most remote locations around the globe, where terrestrial services are not feasible. Mobile Reach Solar 3G is an end-to-end managed solution for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) who want to expand their service footprint efficiently into ultra-rural regions where traditional network buildouts are uneconomical.

The turnkey, solar-powered package combines Intelsat connectivity, including services from the Intelsat Epic High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) platform, bundled with Gilat’s Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) system for small cell and cellular backhaul. The combination allows an MNO to expand 3G service over a 2.5-kilometer radius, and includes power supply, mono-pole, and all satellite and cellular equipment.

According to the companies, Mobile Reach Solar 3G is a small-cell over satellite package that can be carried by hand and installed by just a few people. It is intended for MNOs looking to extend services and address market needs, where unreliable or non-existent power supplies requires diesel generators to provide consistent service levels. In those environments, maintaining equipment and securing fuel can be the most difficult and expensive part of keeping traditional cell towers operational.