As demand for mobile connectivity increases in regions where there is an absence of terrestrial infrastructure, mobile network operators (MNOs) are looking to satellite communications to expand their subscriber base, comply with universal service obligations and most importantly, provide rural communities with the necessary connectivity to help their populations and economies thrive.

Gilat Satellite Networks and Intelsat SA have joined forces to provide MNOs with a comprehensive 2G/3G cellular infrastructure solution to better serve rural regions.

Gilat's CellEdge small-cell-over-satellite solution, combined with Intelsat's global satellite coverage and IntelsatOne terrestrial infrastructure, means mobile network operators can now expand 2G/3G services quickly and profitably throughout their desired service territories.

An initial example of the collaboration between Gilat and Intelsat is RuralCom's thousand-mile-long Alaska Highway and British Columbia Coast cellular network. Gilat's CellEdge 3G network is leveraging Intelsat's global satellite fleet through its Intelsat Horizons 1 satellite and its IntelsatOne terrestrial network.

Gilat's CellEdge 3G network is optimizing space segment usage through a hub located at an Intelsat teleport. Joining forces, the two companies are enabling RuralCom to quickly expand its network and extend its subscriber base at a significantly reduced capital expenditure base level.

"There are vast stretches of the Alaska Highway and BC Coast which have no existing wireless service. We believe that providing such coverage greatly benefits the public safety and brings significant protection to life and property." claimed Bob Hillman, President and CEO of RuralCom. "We searched for the most advanced technology and equipment and chose the Gilat-Intelsat solution for their innovative cost-effective offering coupled with their vast rural expertise in deploying under harsh environmental conditions."

"At Intelsat, our mission has always been to provide satellite solutions that can deliver broadband connectivity to any location," stated Stephen Spengler, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Intelsat.

"The innovation and collaboration occurring throughout the satellite ecosystem, such as the optimization of Gilat's platforms on the Intelsat EpicNG infrastructure, result in attractive and efficient solutions for MNOs that connect their subscribers and support profitable growth for their businesses.

"Our collaboration with Gilat provides MNOs with a seamless and cost efficient way to deploy and expand their wireless networks, and the opportunity to transition over time to the higher performance of Intelsat EpicNG as it begins entering service in 2016."

"Teaming up with Intelsat brings tremendous value to our joint customers," expanded Erez Antebi, Gilat's CEO. "Intelsat's vast global array of fully integrated, end-to-end satellite solutions, together with our innovative all-inclusive solution, allows operators to extend their cellular coverage to virtually anywhere in the world within two to three months."