Hughes do Brasil, a Brazilian operating unit of Hughes Network Systems, has signed agreements with two Brazilian cellular operators to provide satellite backhaul services connecting remote cellular base transceiver stations (BTS) to their GSM networks. The two contracts call for providing managed services for connecting a total of 79 BTS sites over a five year period.
Hughes do Brasil claimed that 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.
The service is expected to provide cell phone access to approximately half a million consumers and businesses in the central and northeastern regions of Brazil.
Delio Morais, president of Hughes do Brasil, said: In Brazil, GSM backhaul over satellite is a triple-win solution. 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.”
