Hughes to Provide Satellite-Based Cellular Backhaul Services in Brazil

­Satellite operator, Hughes Network Systems says that its Brazilian subsidiary has signed agreements with two unnamed Brazilian cellular operators to provide satellite backhaul services connecting remote cellular base stations to their GSM networks. The two contracts call for providing turn-key managed services for connecting a total of 79 BTS sites over a 60 month period.

The federal government in Brazil has created incentives for cellular operators to provide service to remote, unserved areas. In exchange for granting spectrum and licenses for delivery of 3G voice, data, and video services in lucrative urban locations, the government is requiring operators to provide cellular service in remote areas that have no cellular coverage today.

"In Brazil, GSM backhaul over satellite is a triple-win solution," said Delio Morais, president of Hughes do Brasil. "Operators can grow their businesses and build revenue while complying with universal service obligations (USO); the government is furthering its policy to increase cellular penetration throughout the country; and people in remote areas gain the benefits of improved communications, thereby enriching their lives."

Hughes do Brasil deployed the two networks in record time. All 79 sites were operational within 70 days after the agreements were signed, including importing the required satellite equipment, shipment to the remote locations and activation of the links. "This project was like a war operation with many sites located deep in the rugged terrain of Brazil, which made the logistics very complicated," added Morais.

The service is expected to eventually provide cell phone access to approximately half a million consumers and businesses in the central and northeastern regions of Brazil, bringing cellular service to these areas for the first time.

Posted to the site on 31st August 2009