Gilat Satellite Networks Deploys SkyAbis Backhaul Solution to Southeast Asian Operator

Gilat Satellite Networks has signed an agreement with Huawei for the delivery of its SkyAbis cellular backhaul solution to an unnamed Southeast Asian Mobile Network Operator (MNO).

Gilat will supply and install a SkyEdge 2 hub, SkyEdge 2 Pro VSATs and related services, including remote site installation. A majority of the sites will replace older SCPC modems that are currently in use. The SkyAbis network was designed to support both 2G and 3G BTS/Node B sites as part of a major upgrade to the MNO’s nationwide cellular infrastructure.

MDA Extends Military Services Contract with Australian Government

Essential information solutions provider MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) has signed a multi-million dollar contract amendment with the Commonwealth of Australia.

MDA will provide a six-month extension to the original three-month assessment activity to provide new critical information in support of Australia’s efforts in Afghanistan. The assessment activity was announced in September 2012.

Neo Telemedia Enters Satellite Operator Business

Hong Kong telecom and services distributor Neo Telemedia has acquired a 100-percent stake of HCH Investments for HK$273 million ($35.19 million) in an effort to enter the satellite telecommunication operator business.

Neo Telemedia will pay the purchase price in three segments: cash in the amount of HK$27.32 million ($3.52 million); allotment and issuance of 119 million consideration shares at HK$0.72 each at an aggregate value of HK$85.68 million; and a convertible note issuance in the principal amount of HK$160 million.

O3b Networks Partners with SES to Provide Internet Capacity in Papua New Guinea

Mobile phone network provider Digicel will start providing high-quality Internet bandwidth for their cellular network in Papua New Guinea. According to SES, Digicel has contracted capacity both with them and with O3b Networks.

The agreement allows Digicel usage of O3b’s O3bTrunk service and of the C-band capacity on SES’ NSS-9 satellite at 183 degrees East, with the goal of delivering cost-efficient and reliable high-quality voice and high-speed mobile data services to its costumers.

Thaicom Moves Ipstar 2 Launch Date Forward to Meet Demand

Thaicom has accelerated its plans to launch the Thaicom 8 satellite, also known as Ipstar 2, to meet demand.

The $200 million broadband satellite will now be launched in early 2016 and be positioned at the 119.5 degrees East orbital slot. Thaicom CEO Suthumpun Suphajee commented the accelerated schedule was enacted to accommodate the greater use of Ipstar 1, which reached half of its capacity after the company signed a contract with China Telecom’s satellite unit. Thaicom is also preparing to launch its Thaicom 6 satellite later this year.