[Satellite TODAY 03-09-11] AT&T Government Solutions has contracted UltiSat to provide satellite-based Internet services and infrastructure for U.S. military personnel in Afghanistan, UltiSat announced March 8.
    UltiSat’s service package will include global voice-over-IP, videoconferencing and IP data applications for troop morale. UltiSat will support the contract through MoraleSat’s broadband satellite network, which it operates from its teleport in Blaavand, Denmark, using an iDirect Evolution hub. UltiSat said it would continue to monitor, maintain, upgrade and expand the MoraleSat network to provide in-the-field support for AT&T.
    "To best support our deployed servicemen and servicewomen we needed a network that is reliable in a harsh and unforgiving environment and will handle large volumes of broadband traffic on an around-the-clock basis, UltiSat offered us this service with its end-to-end managed VSAT network. Social networking sites have become important morale boosters to troops on the frontlines and UltiSat can cost-effectively support the high-data rates needed for these services," AT&T Program Manager Tim Manning said in a statement.