Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd., a leader in satellite networking technology, solutions and services, announced that the company has been selected in a multimillion-dollar deal with Intelsat to provide the satellite cellular backhaul solution for a leading mobile telecommunication company in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Intelsat deployed its CellBackhaul service with Gilat’s SkyEdge II-c platform and Capricorn VSATs, connecting with a Ku-Band satellite to bring mobile communications to nearly 1,000 previously underserved and unserved remote sites. The implementation brings mobile services to deep rural sites in the DRC, geographically the second-largest nation in Africa, with a growing population of more than 90 million people. Working together, Intelsat and Gilat are extending mobile connectivity to areas where terrestrial backhaul networks are impractical, expensive or otherwise unfeasible to deploy.

“Industry-leading know-how and cost-effective satellite technology from Gilat are key components of the solution, significantly augmenting our ability to bring together the right services, and expertise to provide customers an economical way to expand coverage into remote areas with an unbeatably low total cost of ownership,” said Brian Jakins, GM, and VP of Networks, Intelsat. “Intelsat values its ongoing partnership with Gilat, working together to bridge the gaps that other technologies and solutions can’t address.”

With Gilat hubs and VSATs, Intelsat’s CellBackhaul satellite cellular backhaul solution combines the extended reach and resiliency of Intelsat’s largest-of-its-kind global network with network design, installation and operation services, making it possible for mobile network operators to deploy services in areas where traditional terrestrial backhaul services are unavailable.

“We are proud to have been selected by Intelsat to participate in this project to enhance and upgrade rural communication services,” said Amir Yafe, VP of Mobility & Global Accounts at Gilat. “Through this important strategic DRC deal with Intelsat, we are bringing un-matched value to our partners, as well as enhancing the lives of people around the world as we assist in closing the digital divide. When viewed alongside implementations in other regions, it’s easy to appreciate the growing strength of Gilat’s technology and leading satellite backhaul solution, ideally suited to the specific needs of all mobile networks, including future deployments for 5G.”