ViaSat Adds Asia Broadcast Satellite ABS-7 Ka-band to Services Coverage

March 16, 2011

ViaSat Inc. have entered into a multi-year agreement to provide Ka-band satellite service in key areas of the Middle East using the ABS-7 satellite. The bandwidth will be used for fixed and mobile satellite services as a part of ViaSat’s continuing expansion of its Yonder® mobile satellite network from global Ku-band coverage to growing Ka-band coverage in key international markets. ABS-7 (formerly Koreasat-3) provides 600 MHz of Ka-band capacity suitable for mobile broadband services, cellular backhaul, VSAT services, and US/NATO government requirements in the Middle East.

The Yonder mobile broadband service is one of ViaSat’s fastest growing segments, serving business jets, maritime vessels, and government and defense customers around the world. The mobile global network offers higher speeds, lower airtime pricing, and greater bandwidth availability than other mobile services through smaller and lower cost terminals than conventional mobile Ku-band VSAT systems. Ka-band extends the benefits of the network even further, offering more attractive airtime pricing and even higher speeds.

“This additional Ka-band capacity on ABS-7 will support and strengthen the Yonder® mobile satellite network as it expands into markets in need of global connections in the Middle East and Asia,” said Tom Choi, CEO of ABS. “We are very excited about this strategic collaboration with ViaSat.” 

“This partnership with ABS enables us to work together to satisfy the growing need for satellite services in the Middle East and Asia,” said Paul Baca, VP and General Manager of ViaSat’s Global Mobile Broadband business.  “This Ka capacity coupled with our small VR-12 airborne terminals enables higher transmission speeds and lower air time pricing for our Yonder® mobile subscribers.”