18 Feb 2011 09:00
Inmarsat selects iDirect for Global Xpress
VSAT technology leader to take major role in supporting global broadband rollout
London: 18th February 2011: Inmarsat (LSE:ISAT), the leading provider of global mobile satellite communications services, today announced that VT iDirect ('iDirect'), a world leader in satellite-based IP communications technology, has been awarded a contract valued at approximately US$60m to provide the Ground Network Infrastructure and Core Module technology for integration into the Satellite Terminals for Inmarsat's forthcoming Global Xpress service.
iDirect will design, develop, manufacture, test and commission the Global Xpress Ground Network Infrastructure, building upon its leadership position in the VSAT network technology arena. To facilitate the delivery of the Global Xpress promise of global broadband connectivity, iDirect will leverage its core platform capabilities and its advancements in mobility, quality of service and network management. As part of the agreement, iDirect will supply a Global Xpress compatible Core Module for integration into Maritime satellite terminals. iDirect also plans to produce a range of Global Xpress Core Modules specifically designed for the Aeronautical and Government sectors. The network and Core Modules that iDirect will deliver will be fully consistent with the Global Xpress objective delivering up to 50Mbps downlink speeds to 60cm aperture terminals.
Leo Mondale, Managing Director of the Global Xpress programme, comments: "Global Xpress is delighted to be working with acknowledged VSAT expert iDirect. iDirect has built its market leadership in IP-based VSAT network technology through constant innovation and responsiveness to customer requirements. With this agreement, we are able to draw on the very best that VSAT technology has to offer, and combine it with Inmarsat's longstanding commitment to quality, global coverage and seamless mobility. This is another big step for us toward setting the new standard in VSAT, by offering reliable, easy-to-use broadband connectivity solutions for remote and mobile platforms on land, at sea and in the air, wherever they are needed. iDirect's technology base and track record for on-time performance strongly support our planned introduction of Global Xpress commercial services in 2013."
For further information, please contact:
Chris Mclaughlin, Vice President, External Affairs: +44 779 627 6033