O3b Networks Ltd (O3b) has signed an agreement with Telecom Cook Islands for the provision of bandwidth for high speed Internet connectivity to an additional four Islands in the nation’s southern group (and a fifth island, Mitiaro, will receive faster internet via a microwave radio link). The bandwidth will be supplied over O3b’s Medium Earth Orbit satellite constellation which is scheduled for service in 3rd Quarter of 2013.

In 2011, Telecom Cook Islands signed an agreement with O3b for the provision of high speed Internet connectivity for Rarotonga. This extended agreement will allow Telecom Cook Islands to cost effectively distribute the bandwidth between Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Atui, Mangaia, and Mauke. As a result, each island will receive more than 20x the bandwidth they enjoy today.

“This high speed broadband connectivity will support the Cook Islands 2011-2015 Sustainable Development goals of Infrastructure for economic growth, sustainable livelihoods & resilience; and Opportunity for all people who live in the Cook Islands,” said Jules Maher, CEO of Telecom Cook Islands.

“This new agreement with the Cook Islands showcases the benefit of fibre-like performance delivered over O3b’s unique satellite network. The ultra low latency and vast bandwidth provides everything that fibre can but in addition delivers and shares the bandwidth between several landing points across multiple distributed islands – something that fibre does not do,” said Steve Collar, CEO of O3b Networks.