Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. has signed an agreement with O3b Networks Limited, the developer of a new high-speed, low-latency satellite-based service for telecommunication operators and enterprises in emerging markets, for the development and supply of Ka-band infrastructure for O3b's VSAT services.

The agreement between the two parties ensures a range of hub, terminal and network management systems will be available to O3b customers for use on the fleet upon launch. The solution developed by Gilat for O3b is based on Gilat's existing SkyEdge II platform, which includes support for Ka-band and a unified system for SCPC and MF-TDMA on the same terminal.

Gilat's solution is further customized for cellular backhaul and high-end enterprise VSAT solutions on the O3b network, supporting upload and download data rates of over 20Mbps. Gilat will also be offering O3b customers deployment and turnkey ground terminal solutions based on 3rd party equipment. Gilat's solution will be available for O3b's service launch in mid-2013, and pre-launch orders for terminals are being accepted.